""THE ULTIMATE AUTHORITY...RESIDES IN THE PEOPLE ALONE...THE ADVANTAGE OF BEING ARMED, WHICH THE AMERICANS POSSESS OVER THE PEOPLE OF ALMOST EVERY OTHER NATION...FORMS A BARRIER AGAINST THE ENTERPRISES OF AMBITION.""
— James Madison
James Madison, The Federalist Papers, No. 46
Historical Significance
Madison's argument that American exceptionalism lies in armed citizenry
Context
Federalist Papers explanation of how armed population prevents tyranny
Context
Federalist Papers explanation of how armed population prevents tyranny
Historical Significance
Madison’s argument that American exceptionalism lies in armed citizenry