Skip to content

Government Quote by Thomas Jefferson

“I hope we shall take warning from the example of England and crush in its birth the aristocracy of our moneyed corporations which dare already to challenge our Government to trial, and bid defiance to the laws of our country.” quote by Thomas Jefferson
Download Open image
“I hope we shall take warning from the example of England and crush in its birth the aristocracy of our moneyed corporations which dare already to challenge our Government to trial, and bid defiance to the laws of our country.”

Thomas Jefferson

About This Quote

Source Speech: Letter to James Madison, 1796

Jefferson warns against powerful corporate interests that could threaten democratic governance, urging vigilance against economic aristocracy.

In simple terms: Beware of powerful corporations undermining democracy.

Key Takeaway

Guard democracy by limiting corporate power.

Themes

politics economics democracy

Mood

cautious serious

Type

political philosophical

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • campaign finance reform
  • public advocacy
  • education on civic rights

Key Concepts

corporate influence aristocracy governmental authority

Questions to Reflect On

  • What safeguards can prevent corporate overreach?
  • How can citizens hold corporations accountable?
A Different Perspective

Balancing regulation with economic growth is complex.

2.4 out of 5 (7 ratings)

More by Thomas Jefferson

Explore all 2,098 Thomas Jefferson quotes

More Government quotes

Browse all 21,248 Government quotes