“From all that I have read of the History of Government, of human life and manners, I have drawn this conclusion, that the manners of women [are] the most infallible Barometer, to ascertain the degree of Morality and Virtue in a Nation. All that I have since read and all the observations I have made in different Nations, have confirmed me in the opinion. The Manners of Women, are the surest Criterion by which to determine whether a Republican Government is practicable, in a Nation or not. The Jews, the Greeks, the Romans, the Swiss, the Dutch, all lost their public Spirit, their Republican principles and habits, and their Republican Forms of Government when they lost the Modesty and Domestic Virtues of their women…..
The foundations of national Morality must be laid in private Families. In vain are Schools, Academies and universities instituted if loose Principles and licentious habits are impressed upon Children in their earliest years. The Mothers are the earliest and most important Instructors of youth”
John Adams
I agree! Thanks for sharing! 🙂
So very, very true! I work at a pre-school and wish I could post this. We hear comments like well sure his behavior is atrocious but that is what schools are for etc. etc.. It truly makes me sick at times! I wish I could post this on every bulletin board, door, memo, and newsletter that I send out! Thanks!