Political Quotes

Edmund Burke: “They are the distempers of elections that have destroyed all free states.”

On the record
They are the distempers of elections that have destroyed all free states.
Said by
Edmund Burke

Editor's note · Context

Burke identifies the issues surrounding elections as detrimental to free states.

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More from Edmund Burke

Jan 1, 1790

I think our happy situation owing to our Constitution,--but owing to the whole of it, and not to any part singly,--owing in a great measure to what we have left standing in our several reviews and reformations, as well as to what we have…

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Jan 1, 1790

Our people will find employment enough for a truly patriotic, free, and independent spirit, in guarding what they possess from violation.

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Jan 1, 1790

The improvements of the National Assembly are superficial, their errors fundamental.

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Jan 1, 1790

But when the leaders choose to make themselves bidders at an auction of popularity, their talents, in the construction of the state, will be of no service.

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