Thomas Jefferson
(1743–1826) was the third President of the United States and the principal author of the Declaration of Independence. He advocated for liberty, democracy, and education. Jefferson’s vision helped shape the foundations of American governance. His contributions to politics and philosophy remain influential. Thomas Jefferson’s legacy continues to be studied and debated.
10 quotes in this collection. Read them below, share your favourites, or follow the related links to explore similar voices.
All quotes by Thomas Jefferson
-
“Never spend your money before you have it.”
Meaning: This quote emphasizes financial discipline and avoiding unnecessary debt. -
“Honesty is the first chapter in the book of wisdom.”
Meaning: Truthfulness forms the foundation of knowledge and integrity. Without honesty, wisdom cannot develop. -
“Do you want to know who you are? Don't ask. Act! Action will delineate and define you.”
Meaning: Identity is shaped through actions rather than thoughts. What we do reveals who we truly are. -
“I find that the harder I work, the more luck I seem to have.”
Meaning: Jefferson highlights that success often appears as luck but is actually the result of consistent effort and dedication. -
“When angry, count to ten before you speak. If very angry, count to one hundred.”
Meaning: Jefferson advises controlling emotions before reacting. Patience prevents impulsive decisions and conflict. -
“We are not afraid to follow truth wherever it may lead, nor to tolerate any error so long as reason is left free to combat it.”
Meaning: Free people should pursue truth wherever it goes and answer bad ideas with open debate, not suppression. -
“Our liberty depends on the freedom of the press, and that cannot be limited without being lost.”
Meaning: A free society needs people who can report and speak openly. If we let that be restricted, our other freedoms soon follow. -
“The natural progress of things is for liberty to yield, and government to gain ground.”
Meaning: Power tends to grow over time while freedom shrinks, so keeping liberty takes constant attention and effort. -
“I hold it, that a little rebellion, now and then, is a good thing, and as necessary in the political world as storms in the physical.”
Meaning: Healthy societies need occasional protest and challenge to stay honest, just as storms clear the air in nature. -
“The God who gave us life, gave us liberty at the same time; the hand of force may destroy, but cannot disjoin them.”
Meaning: Liberty is not a favor granted by rulers; it is part of being alive, and power can suppress it but never truly separate it from a person.