Our Founding Fathers were very wise men, indeed. Whether one was a Federalist, as was James Madison, or an Anti-Federalist, like Patrick Henry, what mattered most was that, when it really counted, they came together to create the foundation for the most free country that the world has ever seen.
The Declaration of Independence, the United States Constitution and the Bill of Rights are amazing examples of what can be achieved when incredible minds work together towards a common purpose.
Below are some words of wisdom from James Madison, Founding Father, "Father of the Constitution," principal author of the Bill of Rights, Secretary of State (1801-1809) and 4th President of the United States (1809-1817).
“I cannot undertake to lay my finger on that article of the Constitution which granted a right to Congress of expending, on objects of benevolence, the money of their constituents.”
“All men having power ought to be distrusted to a certain degree.”
“Equal laws protecting equal rights are the best guarantee of loyalty and love of country.”
“Public opinion sets bounds to every government, and is the real sovereign in every free one.”
“The operations of the federal government will be most extensive and important in times of war and danger; those of the State governments, in times of peace and security.”
“There are more instances of the abridgment of the freedom of the people by gradual and silent encroachments of those in power than by violent and sudden usurpations.”
“It is the reason alone, of the public, that ought to control and regulate the government.”
“Charity is no part of the legislative duty of the government.”
“The powers delegated by the proposed Constitution to the federal government, are few and defined. Those which are to remain in the State governments are numerous and indefinite. The former will be exercised principally on external objects, as war, peace, negotiation, and foreign commerce.”
“I consider the difference between a system founded on the legislatures only, and one founded on the people, to be the true difference between a league or treaty and a constitution.”
by Scott D. Welch, Patriot
Direct descendant of 8 Americans who fought in the Revolutionary War
Cousin of Patrick Henry
The entertaining and informative In Search of Liberty movie is a great refresher (if it's been a while) or educational tool (for those who know very little) about our U.S. Constitution, and is a movie that All Americans should watch.
