George Washington

If I should conceive myself to be of too much importance to the cause, and to be unwilling to make such sacrifices as the crisis may require, it would be a proof of my unworthiness.

I shall rely therefore on that Providence which has hitherto preserved us, and shall feel no dismay at any dangers.

The consideration that I was not a professional man, and that I had less pretensions to it than many, was a powerful argument against my undertaking the command.

I walk on untrodden ground. There is scarcely any part of my conduct which may not hereafter be drawn into precedent.

I have always walked a straight line, and I have always spoken my sentiments without fear or affection.

It is our true policy to steer clear of permanent alliances with any portion of the foreign world.

To contract new debts is not the way to pay old ones.

The very idea of a government of the people, by the people, for the people, is founded on the great principle of majority rule.

Influence is not government.

I require no guard but the affections of the people.

There is a Destiny which has the control of our actions, not to be resisted by the strongest efforts of Human Nature.

Experience teaches us that it is much easier to prevent an enemy from posting themselves than it is to dislodge them after they have got possession.

The liberties of a nation can be sure only when there is a firm conviction in the minds of the people that these liberties are the gift of God.

A people who are possessed of the spirit of liberty are invincible.

To form a new Government, requires infinite care, and abilities adequate to the task.

I shall only say that I have, with good intentions, contributed my mite to the establishment of a Government which I trust will prove a blessing to our Country.

It should be the highest boast of every American to be a good citizen.

The path of my future life is now marked out. I shall retire to my farm, and never cease to pray for the prosperity of my country.

I hope I shall possess firmness and virtue enough to maintain what I consider the most enviable of all titles, the character of an honest man.

The power of the people is stronger than the people in power.