Quote by Lyn Nofziger
The tree of liberty needs to be watered from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants.
Summary
This quote, often attributed to Thomas Jefferson but possibly originating from earlier sources, suggests that the preservation of freedom and democracy sometimes requires sacrifice and conflict. It implies that the fight for liberty may involve both the defenders of freedom (patriots) and those who seek to suppress it (tyrants) shedding blood. The metaphorical "tree of liberty" symbolizes the idea that a thriving society requires constant vigilance, resilience, and occasional sacrifice to maintain its core values and protect against threats from oppressive forces.
By Lyn Nofziger