Declaration Quote by James Madison
“On the distinctive principles of the Government ... of the U. States, the best guides are to be found in ... The Declaration of Independence, as the fundamental Act of Union of these States.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Congressional Debate, 1791
The quote emphasizes that the Declaration of Independence serves as the primary guide for U.S. governance.
In simple terms: The Declaration is the main guide for government.
Key Takeaway
Look to foundational documents for direction.
Themes
government
foundations
law
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
historical
political
When to use this quote
- policy making
- civic education
- legal interpretation
- historical analysis
Key Concepts
constitutionalism
political theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How should modern policies reflect original intent?
- What limits does historical context impose?
A Different Perspective
The Declaration may be interpreted differently over time.
![“[Joseph Smith] foresaw the time when the destiny of the nation would be in danger and would hang as by a thread. Thank God he did not see the thread break. He also indicated the important part that this people should yet play in standing for the principles embodied in these sacred documents - the…” quote by Ezra Taft Benson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/36e/ezra-taft-benson-443_break_joseph-smith-foresaw-the-time-when-the-d_251877.jpg)
![“It is certain that every class is interested in [educational] establishments which give to the human mind its highest improvements, and to every Country its truest and most durable celebrity.” quote by James Madison](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/964/james-madison-373_certain_it-is-certain-that-every-class-is-intere_22217.jpg)
