Political Quotes

Thomas Paine: To which we may add, that a right which originated to-day, is as much a right, as if it had the sanction of a thousand…

On the record
To which we may add, that a right which originated to-day, is as much a right, as if it had the sanction of a thousand years; and therefore the independence and present government of America are in no more danger of being subverted, because they are modern, than that of England is secure, because it is ancient.
Said by
Thomas Paine

Editor's note · Context

Paine argues that modern rights are as valid as ancient ones, defending America's independence.

Share

More from Thomas Paine

Jan 1, 1791

A constitution is not a thing in name only, but in fact.

gutenberg.org
Jan 1, 1791

They had a cause at stake, on which depended their freedom or their slavery.

gutenberg.org
Jan 1, 1791

The animosity of the English nation, it is very well remembered, ran high; and, had the true principles of Liberty been as well understood then as they now promise to be, it is probable the Nation would not have patiently submitted to so…

gutenberg.org
Jan 1, 1791

The more it is struck the more sparks it will emit; and the fear is it will not be struck enough.

gutenberg.org