Political Quotes

Thomas Paine: Nothing on the part of congress was compulsive; yet, in this situation, it was more faithfully and affectionately obeyed…

On the recordJanuary 1, 1791
Nothing on the part of congress was compulsive; yet, in this situation, it was more faithfully and affectionately obeyed than was any government in Europe.
Said by
Thomas Paine

Editor's note · Context

Paine observes that during the early American republic, a non-compulsive Congress was more respected than European governments, highlighting the power of consent.

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