The Law's Tyranny: When Freedom Becomes A Memory

When tyranny becomes law, rebellion becomes duty, is a famous quote by Thomas Jefferson, often used to express patriotism and a willingness to fight against unjust rule. The quote has been used on various merchandise, including t-shirts, hoodies, mugs, and stickers, and is particularly popular among those who identify with the Three Percent movement.

Thomas Jefferson quote

Thomas Jefferson, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States and the principal author of the Declaration of Independence, is often associated with the quotation "When tyranny becomes law, rebellion becomes duty." However, this exact phrase does not appear in his writings. Instead, a similar sentiment is expressed in the Declaration of Independence:

> "...when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government..."

Jefferson's writings and speeches are replete with references to the dangers of tyranny and the importance of liberty. For example, in a letter to Dr. Benjamin Rush in 1800, he wrote, "I have sworn upon the altar of God eternal hostility against every form of tyranny over the mind of man."

Jefferson's ideas on tyranny and freedom were deeply influenced by the Enlightenment philosophy of the time and his own experiences during the American Revolution. He believed that individuals had certain natural rights, such as life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, that could not be taken away by a tyrannical government. In his retirement papers, he reflected on the fragility of liberty and the constant vigilance required to protect it:

> "I am not an advocate for frequent changes in laws and constitutions, but laws and institutions must go hand in hand with the progress of the human mind. As that becomes more developed, more enlightened, as new discoveries are made, new truths discovered and manners and opinions change, with the change of circumstances, institutions must advance also to keep pace with the times."

Jefferson's words continue to resonate today, inspiring people around the world in their struggles against tyranny and oppression.

Declaration of Independence

The Declaration of Independence, one of the most famous documents in world history, was drafted by a committee including Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, and John Adams, and adopted on July 4, 1776, in Philadelphia. The Declaration announced America's separation from the British Empire, marking a fundamental shift from dependent colonies to independent states.

The Right to Alter or Abolish Oppressive Governments

The Declaration asserts the right of the people to "alter or abolish" a government that becomes "destructive" of their rights, and to institute a new government that secures these rights. This right is justified by the following self-evident truths: all people are created equal, and they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

A Long Train of Abuses

The Declaration lists a series of grievances against the British King, including his refusal to assent to wholesome laws, obstruction of legislation, dissolution of representative houses, and imposition of taxes without consent. These actions are characterised as a "long train of abuses" aimed at establishing "absolute Tyranny" over the colonies.

The Right to Self-Government

The Declaration proclaims that the colonies are "Free and Independent States", with the power to levy war, conclude peace, contract alliances, and conduct other acts that independent states are entitled to perform. This proclamation is underpinned by the belief that governments derive their just powers from the consent of the governed.

A Call for Resistance

The Declaration's recognition of the right to overthrow oppressive governments has inspired people worldwide to resist tyranny and fight for their freedom. It serves as a reminder that when a government fails to protect the rights and safety of its people, it is the people's right, and indeed their duty, to throw off such government and establish a new one that upholds their inherent rights.

Tyranny and rebellion

"When tyranny becomes law, rebellion becomes duty." This famous quote is attributed to Thomas Jefferson, one of the United States' Founding Fathers. The quote has become a popular slogan, often appearing on t-shirts, stickers, decals, and other merchandise, particularly those with a patriotic theme.

The phrase encapsulates a belief that when a government or ruling power becomes tyrannical and acts unjustly, it is the right, or even the duty, of the people to rebel and overthrow that power. This sentiment has been expressed by various revolutionary and resistance movements throughout history, and continues to resonate with those who feel their freedoms are being curtailed or that the rule of law is being undermined.

The idea of rebellion as a response to tyranny is a complex and controversial one. On the one hand, it can be seen as a justifiable last resort when all other avenues for change have been exhausted. Throughout history, many successful revolutions have been sparked by the belief that the existing regime has become oppressive and unjust, and that it is the duty of the oppressed to rise up and overthrow their oppressors.

On the other hand, rebellion and revolution can also lead to chaos, instability, and even greater loss of life and freedom. It is a delicate balance, and one that has been debated by philosophers, politicians, and activists for centuries.

In the context of the quote, "tyranny" can be interpreted as a government or ruler that acts arbitrarily and without regard for the rule of law or the rights of the governed. This could include the denial of basic freedoms, the abuse of power, or the implementation of laws that are unjust or oppressive. When a government crosses this line, according to Jefferson's quote, it becomes the duty of the people to resist and overthrow that government.

Injustice and resistance

The phrase "when tyranny becomes law, rebellion becomes duty" is often attributed to Thomas Jefferson, although there is no record of him ever having said or written it. The phrase has become a rallying cry for those who believe that they are suffering under a tyrannical government, and it has been used to justify rebellion and revolution.

The idea that "rebellion becomes duty" when faced with tyranny suggests that there is a moral imperative to resist unjust laws and governments. This notion of "duty" implies that resistance is not just a right but an obligation—a necessary action to uphold freedom and justice.

Injustice can take many forms, from oppressive laws that restrict basic freedoms to corrupt governments that abuse their power and violate the rights of their citizens. When faced with such injustices, individuals and communities may feel compelled to resist, whether through non-violent protest, civil disobedience, or even more radical forms of rebellion.

Resistance to injustice is a complex and often dangerous undertaking. It requires careful strategy, organization, and a shared understanding of the goals and methods of the resistance. Throughout history, acts of resistance have taken many forms, from the refusal to comply with unjust laws to the formation of underground networks, the dissemination of banned literature, and, in some cases, the use of force or violence.

The phrase "when tyranny becomes law, rebellion becomes duty" encapsulates a powerful idea: that there are times when resistance to authority is not only justifiable but necessary to uphold freedom and justice. However, it is important to recognize that the line between tyranny and lawful authority is often contested, and the decision to rebel carries significant risks and consequences.

Patriotic merchandise

There is a wide range of patriotic merchandise available for those who believe that tyranny is becoming law. Many items feature the phrase "when tyranny becomes law, rebellion becomes duty", alongside the year 1776. This merchandise includes:

• Vinyl stickers for cars, trucks, laptops, and helmets
• T-shirts
• Hoodies
• Hats
• Flags
• Mugs
• Decals

Other patriotic merchandise includes:

• Clothing: shirts, sweaters, hoodies, jackets, vests, cardigans, blouses, polos, tank tops, and ties
• Accessories: hats, socks, sunglasses, scarves, headbands, wristbands, and jewellery
• Drinkware: whiskey glasses
• Bags: concealed carry bags

Frequently asked questions