James Knox Polk quotes

1795–1849 · Pineville, NC

• All citizens, whether native or adopted, are placed upon terms of precise equality. All are entitled to equal rights and equal protection.

• Has the sword of despots proved to be a safer or surer instrument of reform in government than enlightened reason?

• Who shall assign limits to the achievements of free minds and free hands under the protection of this glorious Union?

• The inestimable value of our Federal Union is felt and acknowledged by all.

• Well may the boldest fear and the wisest tremble when incurring responsibilities on which may depend our country's peace and prosperity, and in some degree the hopes and happiness of the whole human family.

• One great object of the Constitution was to restrain majorities from oppressing minorities or encroaching upon their just rights. Minorities have a right to appeal to the Constitution as a shield against such oppression.