If a nation expects to be ignorant and free, in a state of civilization,
it expects what never was and never will be. - Thomas Jefferson
The Tree of Liberty must be refreshed, from time to time, with the blood
of patriots and tyrants. - Thomas Jefferson
It is neither wealth nor splendor but tranquility and occupation
which give happiness. - Thomas Jefferson
Question with boldness even the existence of a God; because, if there be
one, he must more approve of the homage of reason, then that of
blindfolded
fear. - Thomas Jefferson
I never told my own religion nor scrutinized that of another. I
never attempted to make a convert, nor wished to change another's creed.
I am satisfied that yours must be an excellent religion to have produced
a life of such exemplary virtue and correctness.
For it is in our lives,
and not from our words, that our religion must be judged. - Thomas
Jefferson, letter to Mrs. H. Harrison Smith, 1816