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Adopted Quote by Thomas Jefferson

“this last establishment will probably be within a mile of Charlottesville, and four from Monticello, if the system should be adopted at all by our legislature who meet within a week from this time. my hopes however are kept in check by the ordinary character of our state legislatures, the members...” quote by Thomas Jefferson
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“this last establishment will probably be within a mile of Charlottesville, and four from Monticello, if the system should be adopted at all by our legislature who meet within a week from this time. my hopes however are kept in check by the ordinary character of our state legislatures, the members...”

Thomas Jefferson

About This Quote

Source Letter: Letter to James Madison, 1801

Jefferson doubts the new capital location, fearing legislative inertia will prevent adoption.

In simple terms: Jefferson doubts new capital will be built due to slow legislature.

Key Takeaway

Expect delays from legislative inaction.

Themes

politics government legislature urban planning skepticism

Mood

cautious skeptical reflective

Type

historical political

When to use this quote

  • state capital planning
  • legislative sessions
  • policy advocacy
  • public infrastructure projects

Key Concepts

Federalism institutional inertia regional development

Questions to Reflect On

  • What mechanisms can accelerate legislative decisions?
  • How does local opposition affect capital placement?
A Different Perspective

If the legislature acts quickly, the plan could succeed; otherwise it stalls.

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