Quote:Liberty's teeth
Ths is misattributed to George Washington... it was C. S. Wheatley that was summarizing Washington's views in 1926 that said it. But it was been repeated so often (especially in the 70's and 80's) that it became lore, like chopping down the cherry tree. But it is also somewhat reflective of Washington's support for the right of civilians to bear arms that C.S. Weatley said it, and most Americans for 100 years had no problems believing it.
The longer quote was, "Firearms stand next in importance to the Constitution itself. They are the American people’s liberty teeth and keystone under independence — From the hour the Pilgrims landed, to the present day, events, occurrences and tendencies prove that to ensure peace, security and happiness, the rifle and the pistol are equally indispensable — The very atmosphere of firearms anywhere and everywhere restrains evil interference — they deserve a place of honour with all that’s good."
