Accustomed Quote by George Washington
“It may be laid down as a primary position, and the basis of our system, that every Citizen who enjoys the protection of a free Government, owes not only a proportion of his property, but even his personal services to the defence of it, and consequently that the Citizens of America (with a few legal and official exceptions) from 18 to 50 Years of Age should be borne on the Militia Rolls, provided with uniform Arms, and so far accustomed to the use of them, that the Total strength of the Country might be called forth at a Short Notice on any very interesting Emergency.”
About This Quote
Source Document: Letter to the Continental Congress, 1775
Citizens must be ready to defend their government, serving in militia from age 18‑50, with arms and training, so the nation can mobilize quickly in emergencies.
In simple terms: Citizens should be prepared to defend their country through militia service.
Key Takeaway
Be ready to serve and train for defense.
Themes
civic duty
military readiness
national security
Mood
patriotic
serious
Type
political
historical
When to use this quote
- Emergency response
- community defense
- national mobilization
Key Concepts
Republicanism
citizen militia
defense preparedness
Questions to Reflect On
- How can modern societies balance civic duty with personal freedoms?
- What incentives encourage militia participation?
A Different Perspective
Requires extensive training and resources; may burden individuals.
