More by George Mason
That all men are by nature equally free and independent, and have certain inherent rights, of which, when they enter into a state of society, they cannot by any compact deprive or divest their posterity; namely, the enjoyment of life and liberty, with the means of acquiring and possessing property, and pursuing and obtaining happiness and safety.
Virginia Declaration of Rights (1776)
The augmentation of slaves weakens the states; and such a trade is diabolical in itself, and disgraceful to mankind.
Addresses to the Virginia Ratifying Convention (1788)
That excessive bail ought not to be required, nor excessive fines imposed, nor cruel and unusual punishments inflicted.
Virginia Declaration of Rights (1776)
Under the present government, all ranks of people are subject to militia duty.
Addresses to the Virginia Ratifying Convention (1788)
Why should we not provide against the danger of having our militia, our real and natural strength, destroyed?
Addresses to the Virginia Ratifying Convention (1788)
I ask who are the militia? They consist now of the whole people, except a few public officers. But I cannot say who will be the militia of the future day.
Addresses to the Virginia Ratifying Convention (1788)
The same causes will generally produce the same effects; and it requires no great degree of penetration to foretell that what has happened may happen again.
All power is vested in, and consequently derived from, the people; [...] magistrates are their trustees and servants, and at all times amenable to them.
Virginia Declaration of Rights (1776)
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