Merchants have no country. The mere spot they stand on does not constitute so strong an attachment as that from which they draw their gains.

Summary

This quote by Thomas Jefferson implies that merchants prioritize their own financial gains above any sort of national loyalty. They are transient individuals who focus on commerce and profit, often without a deep connection to a particular country. Their attachment lies in the source from which they accumulate wealth rather than the physical location they occupy. Jefferson suggests that the pursuit of economic interests can override any sense of patriotism or allegiance to a country, making merchants detached from nationhood.

Topics