The Constitution

George Washington: "The Constitution is the guide which I never will abandon." Letter to the Boston Selectmen, July 28, 1775.

George Washington: "The basis of our political systems is the right of the people to make and to alter their Constitutions of Government. But the Constitution which at any time exists, 'till changed by an explicit and authentic act of the whole People is scaredly obligatory upon all." Fairwell Address, September 19, 1796.

James Madison: "It is possible for the man of pious reflection not to preceive in it[the Constitution] a finger of that Almighty hand which has been so frequently and signally extended to our relief in the critical stages of the revolution." Federalish No. 17, January 11, 1788.

Thomas Jefferson: "In questions of power, let no more be heard of confidence in man, but bind him down from mischief by the chains of the Constitution." Fair copy of the draft of the Kentucky Resolution of 1798.

ALEXANDER HAMILTON: "If it be asked, What is the most sacred duty and the greatest source of our security in a Republic? The answer would be, An inviolable respect fior the Constitution and Laws - the first growing out of the last. . . . A sacred respect for the constitutional law is the vital principal, the sustaining energy of a free governmen t." Essay in The American Daily Advertiser, August 28, 1794.

JOHN ADAMS: " A costitution founded on these principals introduces knowledge among the people, and inspires them with a conscience dignity becoming freemen, a general emulation takes place, which causes good humor, sociability, good manners, and good morals to be general. That elevation of sentiment inspired by a government, makes the common people brave and enterprising. That ambition which is inspired by it makes them sober, industrious, and fugal." Thoughts on Government, 1776.

Noah Webster (American lexicographer, text book author, spelling reformer, word enthusiast, and editor): "In the formation of the constitution the wisdom of all ages is collected-the legislators of antiquity are consulted, as well as the opinions and interests of the millions who are concerned. In short, it is an empire of reason." An examination into the Leading Principles of the Federal Constitution, 1787.