Alliances Quote by Thomas Jefferson
“I sincerely join you in abjuring all political connection with every foreign power; and tho I cordially wish well to the progress of liberty in all nations, and would forever give it the weight of our countenance, yet they are not to be touched without contamination from their other bad principles. Commerce with all nations, alliance with none, should be our motto.”
About This Quote
Source Letter: Thomas Jefferson to John Adams, 1795
Advocates isolationist foreign policy: trade with all, avoid alliances, to preserve liberty.
In simple terms: Trade freely, stay neutral.
Prioritize national independence.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- government decision
- international trade
- diplomacy
- security planning
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Is complete neutrality realistic today?
- What benefits might selective alliances bring?
Isolation can limit strategic partnerships and global influence.