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It is only when the people become ignorant and corrupt, when they degenerate into a populace, that they are incapable of exercising their sovereignty. Usurpation is then an easy attainment, and an usurper soon found. The people themselves become the willing instruments of their own debasement and ruin.

— James Monroe

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More quotes by James Monroe

National honor is the national property of the highest value.

The American continents, by the free and independent condition which they have assumed and maintain, are henceforth not to be considered as subjects for future colonization by any European power.

The Monroe Doctrine (1823)

The best form of government is that which is most likely to prevent the greatest sum of evil.

The mention of Greece fills the mind with the most exalted sentiments, and arouses in our bosoms the best feelings of which our nature is susceptible.

In the wars of the European powers in matters relating to themselves we have never taken any part, nor does it comport with our policy so to do.

The Monroe Doctrine (1823)

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Attribution

Quote text and notes from Wikiquote: James Monroe (page history), available under CC BY-SA 4.0. Source quality and labels are our own summary of what Wikiquote records.