Sir, I wish to understand the true principles of the Government. I wish them carried out. I ask nothing more.

Meaning of the quote

This quote from American President William Henry Harrison shows that he wanted to deeply understand the true values and goals of the government. He didn't want anything complicated - he simply wanted to see these principles put into action. Harrison was direct in his desire to have the government's core purposes realized and achieve its intended purpose.

About William Henry Harrison

William Henry Harrison was the 9th President of the United States, serving the shortest term in history at just 31 days. He was the last president born as a British subject and the grandfather of another president, Benjamin Harrison. Harrison had a distinguished military career, leading forces in the War of 1812 and negotiating numerous treaties with Native American tribes.

More about the author

More quotes from William Henry Harrison

I believe that all the measures of the Government are directed to the purpose of making the rich richer and the poor poorer.

William Henry Harrison

president of the United States in 1841

I believe and I say it is true Democratic feeling, that all the measures of the Government are directed to the purpose of making the rich richer and the poor poorer.

William Henry Harrison

president of the United States in 1841

The only legitimate right to govern is an express grant of power from the governed.

William Henry Harrison

president of the United States in 1841

There is nothing more corrupting, nothing more destructive of the noblest and finest feelings of our nature, than the exercise of unlimited power.

William Henry Harrison

president of the United States in 1841

To Englishmen, life is a topic, not an activity.

William Henry Harrison

president of the United States in 1841

The chains of military despotism, once fastened upon a nation, ages might pass away before they could be shaken off.

William Henry Harrison

president of the United States in 1841

All the measures of the Government are directed to the purpose of making the rich richer and the poor poorer.

William Henry Harrison

president of the United States in 1841

Sir, I wish to understand the true principles of the Government. I wish them carried out. I ask nothing more.

William Henry Harrison

president of the United States in 1841

I contend that the strongest of all governments is that which is most free.

William Henry Harrison

president of the United States in 1841