
Let us never forget that government is not reason, it is not eloquence, it is force.
On the record
Quotes from current and former Presidents.
Current presidents
Former presidents

Let us never forget that government is not reason, it is not eloquence, it is force.

Government is not reason; it is not eloquence; it is force.

Peace, commerce, and honest friendship with all nations; entangling alliances with none.

The preservation of the sacred fire of liberty and the destiny of the republican model of government are justly considered as deeply, perhaps as finally, staked on the experiment entrusted to the hands of the American people.

The best and noblest form of government is that which is founded on the will of the people.

Justice is the constant and perpetual will to render every one his due.

Liberty is a precious gift that must be safeguarded by all.

The welfare of the people is the highest law.

Government must be responsive to the needs and wishes of its people.

Freedom is the right to do anything that does not infringe upon the rights of others.

Liberty is the birthright of every human being.

The prosperity of a nation depends on the integrity of its institutions.

A strong nation is built on the foundation of unity and common purpose.

Good governance demands the exercise of wisdom, patience, and courage.

The foundation of our national policy will be laid on the solid basis of the people's will.

The nation that expects to be ignorant and free, expects what never was and never will be.

Government is not reason, it is not eloquence—it is force; like fire, a troublesome servant and a fearful master. Never for a moment should it be left to irresponsible action.

The necessity of reciprocal checks in the exercise of political power, by dividing and distributing it into different depositories...has been evinced by the experience of all mankind.