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Alarms Quote by Alexander Hamilton

“To watch the progress of such endeavors is the office of a free press. To give us early alarm and put us on our guard against encroachments of power. This then is a right of utmost importance, one for which, instead of yielding it up, we ought rather to spill our blood.” quote by Alexander Hamilton
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“To watch the progress of such endeavors is the office of a free press. To give us early alarm and put us on our guard against encroachments of power. This then is a right of utmost importance, one for which, instead of yielding it up, we ought rather to spill our blood.”

Alexander Hamilton

About This Quote

Source The Federalist Papers, No. 78, 1788

A free press monitors power, warns of danger, and must be defended even at great personal cost.

In simple terms: Press guards against tyranny.

Key Takeaway

Defend press freedom fiercely.

Themes

freedom of press government accountability civic duty

Mood

defensive urgent

Type

political philosophical

When to use this quote

  • journalism
  • political activism
  • legal advocacy
  • public protest

Key Concepts

political theory democracy rights

Questions to Reflect On

  • What responsibilities do citizens have to protect press freedom?
  • How can we balance press power with responsibility?
A Different Perspective

Press can be biased or manipulated.

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