I go on the principle that a public debt is a public curse and in a republican government more than in any other.
James MadisonRead
America was indebted to immigration for her settlement and prosperity. That part of America which had encouraged them most had advanced most rapidly in population, agriculture and the arts.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Immigration has been crucial to America's growth and success.
James Madison emphasizes the vital role that immigration has played in shaping America, attributing the nation's settlement and prosperity to the contributions of immigrants. He suggests that areas in America which welcomed immigrants have thrived in various aspects such as population growth, agriculture, and cultural developments, highlighting the interconnectedness of immigration and national advancement.
Themes
ImmigrationProsperityGrowthSettlementDiversity
In practice
Example use cases
In speeches about cultural diversity, one might quote Madison to emphasize the importance of immigration.
More from James Madison
All quotes →No man is allowed to be a judge in his own cause; because his interest would certainly bias his judgment, and, not improbably, corrupt his integrity. With equal, nay with greater reason, a body of men are unfit to be both judges and parties at the same time.
James MadisonRead
I believe there are more instances of the abridgment of the freedom of the people by gradual and silent encroachments of those in power, than by violent and sudden usurpations; but, on a candid examination of history, we shall find that turbulence, violence, and abuse of power, by the majority trampling on the rights of the minority, have produced factions and commotions, which, in republics, have, more frequently than any other cause, produced despotism.
James MadisonRead
The advice nearest to my heart and deepest in my convictions is that the Union of the States be cherished and perpetuated.
James MadisonRead
Knowledge will forever govern ignorance; and a people who mean to be their own governors must arm themselves with the power which knowledge gives.
James MadisonRead
The magnitude of this evil among us is so deeply felt, and so universally acknowledged, that no merit could be greater than that of devising a satisfactory remedy for it.
James MadisonRead
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