Debt Quote by George Washington
“Avoiding likewise the accumulation of debt, not only by shunning occasions of expense, but by vigorous exertions in time of peace to discharge the debts which unavoidable wars have occasioned, not ungenerously throwing upon posterity the burthen whic”
About This Quote
Source Letter to James Madison, 1790
Avoid debt by frugal living in peace and by repaying war‑time obligations, not burdening future generations.
In simple terms: Live simply now and repay past debts rather than passing them on.
Practice fiscal responsibility and intergenerational fairness.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal budgeting
- government spending
- war reparations
- legacy planning
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What debts do you carry from past conflicts?
- How can societies balance present needs with future burdens?
Peace time may not eliminate all obligations.