No man can be subject to any laws, excepting those which have received the assent of himself or his representatives and which are promulgated beforehand and applied legally.
Marquis De LafayetteRead
When the government violates the people's rights, insurrection is, for the people and for each portion of the people, the most sacred of the rights and the most indispensible of duties.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the right and duty of people to revolt against governmental oppression.
Marquis De Lafayette's quote highlights the belief that when a government infringes upon the rights of its citizens, it becomes not only the right but also the essential duty of the people to rise in insurrection. This perspective underscores the importance of individual rights and the moral obligation to resist tyranny, suggesting that civic duty includes defending freedoms against oppressive forces.
Themes
InsurrectionGovernmentRightsDutyRebellion
In practice
Example use cases
During a speech on civil rights, one might use this quote to emphasize the importance of standing up against injustice.
More from Marquis De Lafayette
All quotes →May the States be so bound to each other as forever to defy European politics. Upon that union, their consequence, their happiness, will depend. This is the first wish of a heart more truly American than words can express.
Marquis De LafayetteRead
Insurrection is the most sacred of rights and the most indispensable of duties.
Marquis De LafayetteRead
True republicanism is the sovereignty of the people. There are natural and imprescriptible rights which an entire nation has no right to violate.
Marquis De LafayetteRead
The affairs of America I shall ever look upon as my first business whilst I am in Europe. Any confidence from the king and ministers, any popularity I may have among my own countrymen, any means in my power, shall be, to the best of my skill, and till the end of my life, exerted in behalf of an interest I have so much at heart.
Marquis De LafayetteRead
The exercise of natural rights has no limits but such as will ensure their enjoyment to other members of society.
Marquis De LafayetteRead
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