The Origins of the Eternal Vigilance Quote: John Philpot Curran and Thomas Jefferson
Eternal Vigilance is the Price of Liberty
The phrase "eternal vigilance is the price of liberty" is often attributed to Thomas Jefferson, but its origins can be traced back to an earlier speech by Irish politician John Philpot Curran.
Curran's Speech
In a 1790 address to the Irish Volunteers, Curran said, "The condition upon which God hath given liberty to man is eternal vigilance; which condition if he break, servitude is at once the consequence of his crime and the punishment of his guilt."
Curran's speech was a passionate defense of Irish independence, and his words resonated with the audience. The phrase "eternal vigilance is the price of liberty" has since become a rallying cry for those who believe that freedom must be constantly guarded.
Jefferson's Adaptation
Thomas Jefferson was a great admirer of Curran's work, and he often quoted him in his own speeches and writings. In an 1820 letter to William Short, Jefferson wrote, "The price of liberty is eternal vigilance."
Jefferson's use of the phrase helped to popularize it in the United States, and it has since become one of the most famous quotes about the importance of freedom.
The Ultimate Source
While Curran is often credited with originating the phrase "eternal vigilance is the price of liberty," some scholars believe that the ultimate source of the quote may be even earlier. The phrase "vigilantibus non dormientibus jura subserviunt" (the laws favor the vigilant, not the sleeping) appears in the Roman legal code known as the Corpus Juris Civilis.
Regardless of its origins, the phrase "eternal vigilance is the price of liberty" is a powerful reminder that freedom is not a given. It must be constantly guarded and defended by those who believe in it.
Tips for Promoting Eternal Vigilance
- Stay informed about current events.
- Speak out against injustice.
- Support organizations that defend freedom.
- Vote in elections.
- Run for office.
By taking these steps, we can help to ensure that the flame of liberty continues to burn brightly for generations to come.
