“There is danger from all men. The only maxim of a free government ought to be to trust no man living with power to endanger the public liberty.” – John Adams, US Founding Father
John Adams, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, served as the second President from 1797 to 1801 and was a key figure in the American Revolution. He was a strong advocate for independence and played a crucial role in drafting the Declaration of Independence. Adams was also a prominent lawyer and a leading voice for the principles of republicanism and the rule of law.
The quote reflects Adams’s deep concern about the potential for tyranny and the abuse of power within a government. Written in his diary in the spring of 1772, this statement underscores his belief that a free government must be vigilant against the concentration of power in the hands of any individual or group. Adams recognized that power can corrupt and that those in authority must be held accountable to prevent the infringement of individual liberties.
This sentiment is foundational to the principles of checks and balances that were later enshrined in the U.S. Constitution. Adams’s cautionary stance emphasizes the importance of skepticism towards authority and the necessity of safeguarding public liberty against potential threats, whether they arise from government officials or other sources. His insights remain relevant in contemporary discussions about governance, civil liberties, and the balance of power in democratic societies.
