We have no paupers ... The great mass of our [United…
![“We have no paupers ... The great mass of our [United States] population is of laborers; our rich, who can live without labor, either manual or professional, being few, and of moderate wealth. Most of the laboring class possess property, cultivate their own lands, have families, and from the demand…” quote by Thomas Jefferson](https://sms4smile.com/q/i/d26/thomas-jefferson-43_class_we-have-no-paupers-the-great-mass-of-our_389092.jpg)
“We have no paupers ... The great mass of our [United States] population is of laborers; our rich, who can live without labor, either manual or professional, being few, and of moderate wealth. Most of the laboring class possess property, cultivate their own lands, have families, and from the demand for their labor are enabled to exact from the rich and the competent such prices as enable them to be fed abundantly, clothed above mere decency, to labor moderately and raise their families. ... Can any condition of society be more desirable than this?”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
He argues that a society of modest laborers owning land and providing for families is ideal, contrasting with a wealthy elite.
In simple terms: A community of self‑sufficient workers is desirable.
Key Takeaway
Promote equitable land ownership and labor rights.
Themes
economics
social equity
labor rights
Mood
analytical
optimistic
Type
historical
political
When to use this quote
- rural development
- policy reform
- education programs
Key Concepts
agrarianism
wealth distribution
Questions to Reflect On
- How can modern economies ensure fair labor conditions?
- What policies support smallholder prosperity?
A Different Perspective
Implementation faces political resistance.