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Constitution Quote by James Wilson

“Oft have I marked, with silent pleasure and admiration, the force and prevalence, through the United States, of the principle that the supreme power resides in the people, and that they never part with it. It may be called the panacea in politics.” quote by James Wilson
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““Oft have I marked, with silent pleasure and admiration, the force and prevalence, through the United States, of the principle that the supreme power resides in the people, and that they never part with it. It may be called the panacea in politics.””

James Wilson

About This Quote

Source Speech: Political Address, United States, early 1800s

The quote asserts that true political power belongs to the people, a principle that should never be relinquished.

In simple terms: Power belongs to the people and should never be given away.

Key Takeaway

Defend popular sovereignty.

Themes

politics democracy sovereignty

Mood

serious determined

Type

historical ideological

When to use this quote

  • elections
  • public protests
  • policy debates
  • citizen activism

Key Concepts

civic theory social contract

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can citizens protect their power?
  • What are modern threats to popular sovereignty?
A Different Perspective

Power can be eroded by apathy or authoritarianism.

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