simon bolivar

“ The first duty of a government is to give education to the people. ”

“ When I contemplate this immense reunited country, my soul mounts to that height demanded by the colossal perspective of a picture so wonderful. ”

“ A people that loves freedom will in the end be free. ”

“ Among the popular and representative systems of government I do not approve of the federal system: it is too perfect.... ”

“ Do not compare your material forces with those of the enemy. Spirit cannot be compared with matter. ”

“ Damn it, how will I ever get out of this labyrinth. ”

“ A state too expensive in itself...ultimately falls into decay. ”

“ ...an ignorant people is the blind instrument of its own destruction. ”

“ Nations will fall and sink in darkness if education is corrupted or completely abandoned. ”

“ Is it conceivable that a newly emancipated people can soar to the heights of liberty, and, unlike Icarus, neither have its wings melt nor fall into an abyss? Such a marvel is inconceivable and without precedent. ”