Skip to content

I am not a Federalist,” he declared in 1789, “because I…

“I am not a Federalist,” he declared in 1789, “because I never submitted the whole system of my opinions to the creed of any party of men whatever.… If I could not go to heaven but with a party, I would not go there at all.” quote by Joseph J. Ellis
Download Open image
““I am not a Federalist,” he declared in 1789, “because I never submitted the whole system of my opinions to the creed of any party of men whatever.… If I could not go to heaven but with a party, I would not go there at all.””

Joseph J. Ellis

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Expresses a rejection of party allegiance, valuing independent thought over partisan conformity.

In simple terms: Reject party labels to maintain independent judgment.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize personal principles over party loyalty.

Themes

politics independence principles integrity

Mood

critical reflective

Type

historical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • voting decisions
  • public discourse
  • personal ideology

Key Concepts

political philosophy history

Questions to Reflect On

  • What are the risks of refusing any party affiliation?
  • How can one stay informed without party bias?
A Different Perspective

May underestimate practical benefits of organized political groups.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Joseph J. Ellis

Explore all 49 Joseph J. Ellis quotes

More Federalist quotes

Browse all 131 Federalist quotes