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Cases Quote by Thomas Jefferson

“With respect to our State and federal governments, I do not think their relations correctly understood by foreigners. They generally suppose the former subordinate to the latter. But this is not the case. They are co-ordinate departments of one simple and integral whole.” quote by Thomas Jefferson
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“With respect to our State and federal governments, I do not think their relations correctly understood by foreigners. They generally suppose the former subordinate to the latter. But this is not the case. They are co-ordinate departments of one simple and integral whole.”

Thomas Jefferson

About This Quote

Source Letter to James Madison, 1795

State and federal governments are equal partners, not a hierarchy, forming a unified whole.

In simple terms: Governments are co‑equal parts of one system.

Key Takeaway

Respect the balance of governmental powers.

Themes

government federalism unity

Mood

analytical educational

Type

historical political

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • civic education
  • intergovernmental relations

Key Concepts

constitutional design political theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can citizens ensure cooperation?
  • What mechanisms maintain balance?
A Different Perspective

Power struggles can still arise despite formal equality.

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