Quote by Thomas Jefferson
A free people claim their rights as derived from the laws of nature, and not as the gift of their magistrate.
Summary
This quote emphasizes the idea that the rights of individuals are not given to them by their governing authorities, but are inherent and derived from natural laws. It suggests that a free society considers their rights as fundamental and not something that can be granted or taken away by those in power. The quote reflects the belief in the importance of individual liberties and the notion that they are not contingent upon the goodwill or authority of rulers, but rather are universally applicable to all people.