We shall never be abandoned by Heaven while we act worthy of its aid and protection
Samuel AdamsRead
If taxes are laid upon us in any shape without our having a legal representation where they are laid, are we not reduced from the character of free subjects to the miserable state of tributary slaves? We claim British rights not by charter only! We are born to them.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote asserts that taxation without representation reduces citizens to a state of servitude and emphasizes natural rights.
Samuel Adams expresses a strong belief that being taxed without having legal representation undermines the freedom and rights of individuals. He argues that such a situation transforms free citizens into subjugated subjects, akin to slaves, emphasizing that British rights are inherent and not merely granted by charters. This reflects the broader revolutionary sentiment against tyranny and the demand for fairness in governance.
Themes
TaxationRepresentationFreedomRightsSlavery
In practice
Example use cases
During a discussion on civil rights and governance, this quote can highlight the importance of representation in modern taxation debates.
More from Samuel Adams
All quotes →Nothing is more essential to the establishment of manners in a State than that all persons employed in places of power and trust must be men of unexceptionable characters.
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Let no man thirst for good beer.
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He therefore is the truest friend to the liberty of his country who tries most to promote its virtue, and who, so far as his power and influence extend, will not suffer a man to be chosen into any office of power and trust who is not a wise and virtuous man.
Samuel AdamsRead
We boast of our freedom, and we have your example for it. We talk the language we have always heard you speak.
Samuel AdamsRead
Crouch down and lick the hands which feed you. May your chains sit lightly upon you, and may posterity forget that you were our countrymen!
Samuel AdamsRead
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