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Liberties at Risk
The United States of America has been
noted for its unique ability to exist as a nation that is governed by
the people. Therefore it is the right of the people to know what those
who represent them are doing. Often we don't pay attention to what our
representatives do because we have entrusted them to do their duties in
a just and equitable fashion without infringing on our liberties.
History has shown that those entrusted
with power will often go beyond their given authority under the auspice
of good intentions and ultimately may go so far as to assume total
control over all subjects.
"Good intentions will always be
pleaded for every assumption of authority. It is hardly too strong to
say that the Constitution was made to guard the people against the
dangers of good intentions. There are men in all ages who mean to govern
well, but they mean to govern. They promise to be good masters, but they
mean to be masters." --Daniel Webster
Throughout the history of the United
States there have always been individuals and groups who have been
denied the liberties that are afforded by the constitution. We have
denied liberties because of various reasons such as race, color, creed
and affiliations with certain groups. These restrictions have been the
blemish on an otherwise great nation. In many cases individuals and
groups have done their utmost to reveal the inequities that have been
pervade. We have also given our liberties up in times of war and in the
name of security and the desire to avert crime. In so doing we have set
a precedent that is allowing the standing President and administration
to take advantage of the people.
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