“By the theory of our Government majorities rule, but this right is not an arbitrary or unlimited one. It is a right to be exercised in subordination to the Constitution and in conformity to it. One great object of the Constitution was to restrain majorities from oppressing minorities or encroaching upon their just rights. Minorities have a right to appeal to the Constitution as a shield against such oppression.”
More from James K. Polk
“If a man . . . would shake and not be shaken, grip and not be gripped, taking care always…”
“Minorities have a right to appeal to the Constitution as a shield against such oppression.”
“The world has nothing to fear from military ambition in our Government.”
“Peace, plenty, and contentment reign throughout our borders, and our beloved country…”