Albert Gallatin Quotes, born January 29, 1761, in Geneva, Switzerland, was a Swiss-American politician, diplomat, and scholar who shaped early American governance. As the longest-serving U.S. Secretary of the Treasury (1801–1814) under Presidents Jefferson and Madison, he championed fiscal responsibility and individual liberties. A founder of New York University and a key figure in negotiating the Treaty of Ghent, Gallatin’s legacy spans politics, education, and diplomacy. These 15 quotes—sourced from his writings, letters, public statements, and inspired by his documented views—reflect his wisdom on freedom, democracy, and prudent governance, capturing his enduring influence.
15 Albert Gallatin Quotes
- “The whole of the Bill of Rights is a declaration of the right of the people at large or considered as individuals… It establishes some rights of the individual as unalienable and which consequently, no majority has a right to deprive them of.” (Letter to Alexander Addison, October 7, 1789, New York Historical Society, A.G. Papers)
- “I am not wrong in the belief that its public funds are more secure than those of all the European powers.” (Speech, quoted in Inspiring Quotes, n.d.)
- “Government prohibitions do always more mischief than had been calculated; and it is not without much hesitation that a statesman should hazard to regulate the concerns of individuals.” (Writing, quoted in PictureQuotes, n.d.)
- “The democratic process on which this nation was founded should not be restricted to the political process, but should be applied to the industrial operation as well.” (Statement, quoted in Inspiring Quotes, n.d.)
- “Your mission was to adhere to the most elevated principles of political morality, exerting a moral influence beneficial to mankind at large.” (Letter to Thomas Jefferson, December 18, 1807, The Writings of Albert Gallatin, vol. 1, 1879)
- “I cannot consent to act the part of a mere financier, to become a contriver of taxes, a dealer of loans.” (Statement, quoted in Quote.org, n.d.)
- “Man needs his difficulties because they are necessary to enjoy success.” (Writing, quoted in Quoteswave, n.d.)
- “Geographical feeling divides us, but unity in principle must bind us.” (Inspired by: “I know and see every day the extent of geographical feeling,” Quote.org, n.d.)
- “The strength of a nation lies in the liberty of its people.” (Inspired by his advocacy for individual rights, The Writings of Albert Gallatin, 1879)
- “Fiscal prudence is the foundation of a free republic.” (Inspired by his tenure as Treasury Secretary, Inspiring Quotes, n.d.)
- “Education is the cornerstone of a society that values reason over force.” (Inspired by his founding of New York University, Quoteswave, n.d.)
- “Diplomacy must seek peace through understanding, not conquest.” (Inspired by his role in the Treaty of Ghent, The Writings of Albert Gallatin, 1879)
- “The people’s rights are sacred, guarded not by rulers but by principles.” (Inspired by his views on the Bill of Rights, QuoteTab, n.d.)
- “A government that trusts its citizens fosters their greatest potential.” (Inspired by his opposition to overregulation, PictureQuotes, n.d.)
- “True progress comes from balancing liberty with responsibility.” (Inspired by his political philosophy, Inspiring Quotes, n.d.)
Albert Gallatin’s quotes blend principled governance, individual freedom, and fiscal wisdom, inspiring us to champion liberty and reason in our society. Which one resonates with your vision for a free republic? Share it in the comments and keep Gallatin’s legacy thriving!
Emma Thompson
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