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America Quote by Thomas Jefferson

“I think our governments will remain virtuous for many centuries as long as they are chiefly agricultural; and this will be as long as there shall be vacant lands in any part of America. When they get piled upon one another in large cities as in Europe, they will become corrupt as in Europe.” quote by Thomas Jefferson
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“I think our governments will remain virtuous for many centuries as long as they are chiefly agricultural; and this will be as long as there shall be vacant lands in any part of America. When they get piled upon one another in large cities as in Europe, they will become corrupt as in Europe.”

Thomas Jefferson

About This Quote

Source Letter: Thoughts on government and agriculture, 1785

He believed agrarian societies stay virtuous, while urbanization leads to corruption.

In simple terms: Agriculture preserves virtue; cities corrupt.

Key Takeaway

Promote sustainable agriculture.

Themes

virtue agriculture corruption urbanization

Mood

concerned thoughtful

Type

political philosophical

When to use this quote

  • rural development
  • urban planning
  • policy making

Key Concepts

political philosophy economics history

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can modern societies balance agriculture and urban growth?
  • What policies protect virtue in cities?
A Different Perspective

Agricultural focus may not prevent all corruption.

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