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
Whatever may be my feelings of personal gratitude to the Navy of the United States, I feel myself under still greater obligations to them for the honor they have done to the American name in every part of the globe.
Interpretation
The quote expresses gratitude to the U.S. Navy for their service and the respect they bring to the nation globally.
In this quote, Marquis De Lafayette conveys a deep sense of appreciation not only for the personal sacrifices made by the Navy of the United States but also highlights the broader impact of their service on the reputation of the nation. He emphasizes that the honor they bring to the American name across the globe outweighs any personal gratitude he holds, suggesting the importance of collective contributions to national pride and identity.
In practice
In a speech recognizing veterans, one might use this quote to honor their sacrifices.
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.
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.
Insurrection is the most sacred of rights and the most indispensable of duties.
True republicanism is the sovereignty of the people. There are natural and imprescriptible rights which an entire nation has no right to violate.
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.
The exercise of natural rights has no limits but such as will ensure their enjoyment to other members of society.
I can only say that there is not a man living who wishes more sincerely than I do to see a plan adopted for the abolition of slavery.
It is a worthy thing to fight for one's freedom; it is another sight finer to fight for another man's.
Courage is indispensible because in politics not life but the world is at stake.
To see and know the worst is to take from Fear her main advantage.
We have proclaimed to the world our determination 'to die freemen, rather than to live slaves.' We have appealed to Heaven for the justice of our cause, and in Heaven we have placed our trust.
If a fear cannot be articulated, it can't be conquered.
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