Political Quotes

Thomas Paine: “The first was a government of priestcraft, the second of conquerors, and the third of reason.”

On the recordJanuary 1, 1791
The first was a government of priestcraft, the second of conquerors, and the third of reason.
Said by
Thomas Paine

Editor's note · Context

In "Rights of Man," Paine categorizes historical forms of government based on their underlying principles.

Share

More from Thomas Paine

Jan 1, 1791

As to what are called national religions, we may, with as much propriety, talk of national Gods.

gutenberg.org
Jan 1, 1791

When men unite in agreeing that a thing is good, could it be obtained, such for instance as relief from a burden of taxes and the extinction of corruption, the object is more than half accomplished.

gutenberg.org
Jan 1, 1791

In those which proceed from the former cause, the temper becomes incensed and soured; and the redress, obtained by danger, is too often sullied by revenge.

gutenberg.org
Jan 1, 1791

I have no idea, considering the reforms which are now passing and spreading throughout Europe, that England will permit herself to be the last; and where the occasion and the opportunity quietly offer, it is better than to wait for a…

gutenberg.org