I, however, place economy among the first and most important republican virtues, and public debt as the greatest of the dangers to be feared.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Jefferson values thrift in government and sees debt as a major threat.
- In plain terms
- Save money and avoid debt to keep a republic safe.
- What can you take from it?
- Minimize public debt to protect the nation.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When is borrowing necessary?
- How much debt is too much?
Another view
Strategic debt can be useful during emergencies.
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