Political Quotes

Benjamin Franklin: But to refuse defending one's self, or one's country, is so unusual a thing among mankind, that possibly they may not…

On the record
But to refuse defending one's self, or one's country, is so unusual a thing among mankind, that possibly they may not believe it, till by experience, they find they can come higher and higher up our river, seize our vessels, land and plunder our plantations and villages, and retire with their booty unmolested.
Said by
Benjamin Franklin
Missouri

Editor's note · Context

Franklin argues against the unusualness of not defending oneself or one's country, stressing the importance of self-defense in the face of threats.

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