Alexander Hamilton

It has been said that the people are not fit for self-government. This is a libel upon the people.

The true principle of a Republic is, that the people should choose whom they please to govern them. Representation is the only principle by which a free government can be maintained.

Energy in the Executive is a leading character in the definition of good government.

The complete independence of the courts of justice is peculiarly essential in a limited Constitution.

The erection of a bank, by the United States, is a measure of primary importance to the finances of the country.

The incorporation of a bank, and the powers assumed by the bill, have not, in my opinion, been delegated to the United States by the Constitution.

Without a debt, a government would be without a basis for credit.

Power, after all, can only be checked by power.

Men are governed by their passions, and it is by working on these passions that we are to govern them.

I consider the executive power as co-extensive with the objects of government.

It is not by a compliance with the importunities of the moment, but by a steady adherence to the true interests of the country, that we are to acquire a solid and permanent reputation.

The general government must be strong, whatever may be the consequence.

The only way to avoid war is to be prepared for it.

Good government is not to be obtained by placing the whole power in the hands of the people.

A weak government is but another name for a bad government.

The administration of government, in its largest sense, is the greatest of all sciences.

The true test of a good government is its aptitude and tendency to produce a good administration.

I have been much abused for my zeal in promoting the establishment of the national government.

The difference of opinion, on the subject of the bank, has been a principal cause of the schism which has lately taken place in the executive departments.

There are some things which the general government can do, which the state governments cannot.