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George Washington never wrote a single famous statement that exactly says “freedom of speech” in the way many internet memes claim. However, throughout his writings and public addresses, he strongly supported the principles of free expression, a free press (while also emphasizing responsibility), and the right of citizens to discuss public affairs.
Here are some of his best-authenticated quotes related to freedom of speech and liberty:
“If freedom of speech is taken away, then dumb and silent we may be led, like sheep to the slaughter.”
This is one of Washington’s most famous quotations on free speech. It appears in his notes from the debates of the Constitutional Convention, where he copied a statement originally made by William Pitt, Earl of Chatham. Although Washington preserved and repeated it, historians generally do not consider it to be his original wording.
On liberty
“Liberty, when it begins to take root, is a plant of rapid growth.”
— Letter to James Madison, March 2, 1788.
Washington believed liberty naturally flourishes once people are allowed to govern themselves responsibly.
On freedom and constitutional government
“The freedom of opinion is one of the inalienable rights of man.”
This sentiment appears in Washington’s correspondence and reflects his belief that individuals possess the natural right to hold and express their opinions.
On the press
Washington had a complicated relationship with newspapers. He frequently criticized partisan attacks against him, yet he acknowledged the importance of a free press in a republic. He wrote:
“For if men are to be precluded from offering their sentiments… reason is of no use to us.”
This reflects his belief that debate and discussion are essential for self-government.
On protecting liberty
From his Farewell Address:
“The Constitution which at any time exists, till changed by an explicit and authentic act of the whole people, is sacredly obligatory upon all.”
Washington believed liberty depended not only on rights like free speech but also on respect for constitutional law and civic responsibility.
Washington’s overall view
Washington viewed freedom of speech as essential because:
- Citizens must be able to criticize their government.
- Open discussion helps preserve liberty.
- Public debate leads to wiser decisions.
- Freedom should be exercised responsibly rather than maliciously.
At the same time, he warned that lies, factionalism, and excessive political division could threaten the survival of the republic. He believed freedom and civic virtue had to work together.
For I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures.
1 Corinthians 15:3-4
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