We shall never be abandoned by Heaven while we act worthy of its aid and protection
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
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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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!
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