Historical Quote Of The Week

Continuing on the theme of thought that influenced the Founding Fathers and the framers of the Constitution, this week's historical quote courtesy of Proclaiming Liberty comes from Andrew Fletcher.

The possession of arms is the distinction of a freeman from a slave. He who has nothing, and belongs to another, must be defended by him, and needs no arms: but he who thinks his is his own master, and has anything he may call his own, ought to have arms to defend himself and what he possesses, or else live precariously and at discretion.

Fletcher, Andrew. Speeches by a Member of Parliament. Edinburgh, 1703. 43. Print

This quote is found on page 28 of Proclaiming Liberty which is available from Amazon.com for $12.95. The Kindle edition is now available for $3.95.