The essence of a free government consists in an effectual control of rivalries.

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• John Adams:

  Facts are stubborn things; and whatever may be our wishes, our inclinations, or the dictates of our

• John Adams:

  I have accepted a seat in the House of Representatives, and thereby have consented to my own ruin,

• John Adams:

  When people talk of the freedom of writing, speaking or thinking I cannot choose but laugh. No such

• John Adams:

  While all other sciences have advanced, that of government is at a standstill - little better under

• John Adams:

  The Declaration of Independence I always considered as a theatrical show. Jefferson ran away with a

• John Adams:

  I must not write a word to you about politics, because you are a woman.

• John Adams:

  Democracy... while it lasts is more bloody than either aristocracy or monarchy. Remember, democracy

• John Adams:

  As much as I converse with sages and heroes, they have very little of my love and admiration. I lon

• John Adams:

  Here is everything which can lay hold of the eye, ear and imagination - everything which can charm

• John Adams:

  A desire to be observed, considered, esteemed, praised, beloved, and admired by his fellows is one