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Degrees Quote by Alexander Hamilton

“The inhabitants of territories, often the theatre of war, are unavoidably subject to frequent infringements on their rights, which serve to weaken their sense of those rights; and by degrees, the people are brought to consider the soldiery not only as their protectors but as their superiors.” quote by Alexander Hamilton
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“The inhabitants of territories, often the theatre of war, are unavoidably subject to frequent infringements on their rights, which serve to weaken their sense of those rights; and by degrees, the people are brought to consider the soldiery not only as their protectors but as their superiors.”

Alexander Hamilton

About This Quote

Source Speech: Federalist Papers, No. 23, 1788

War zones erode civil rights, turning citizens into subjects who view soldiers as rulers.

In simple terms: War weakens rights and elevates soldiers.

Key Takeaway

Guard civil liberties in conflict.

Themes

rights war authority citizenry

Mood

anxious critical

Type

political historical

When to use this quote

  • occupied territories
  • human rights advocacy
  • policy reform
  • military oversight

Key Concepts

social contract power dynamics militarization

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can societies preserve rights under occupation?
  • What mechanisms keep military power in check?
A Different Perspective

May overlook civilian agency and resilience.

4.7 out of 5 (5 ratings)

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