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...”
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.
Expect delays from legislative inaction.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- state capital planning
- legislative sessions
- policy advocacy
- public infrastructure projects
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What mechanisms can accelerate legislative decisions?
- How does local opposition affect capital placement?
If the legislature acts quickly, the plan could succeed; otherwise it stalls.