Equal and exact justice to all men, of whatever state or persuasion, religious, or political freedom of religion freedom of the press, and freedom of person under the protection of the habeas corpus, and trial by juries impartially selected. These principles form the bright constellation, which has gone before us and guided our steps through an age of revolution and reformation. The wisdom of our sages and blood of our heroes have been devoted to their attainment. They should be the creed of our political faith, the text of civic instruction, the touchstone by which to try the services of those we trust; and should we wander from them in moments of error or of alarm, let us hasten retrace out steps and to regain the road which alone leads to peace, liberty, and safety.
Excerpted from the first Inaugural Address of Thomas Jefferson, March 4 1801.
