The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants. - Thomas Jefferson
Did he imply that the patriots should die for their freedom in fights with the tyranny, or did he imply that the patriots should be held just as bad as tyrants?
It means that no matter how well you construct a state, eventually it will become riddled with parasites and tyrants, as they always squirm their way in somehow. When that happens, the Tree of Liberty’s roots are sucked dry, and must be slaked by the blood of the tyrants and parasites, as well as those willing to bleed to protect their liberty. Those patriots who would gladly spill their own and others blood to ensure the Tree of Liberty grows on
I believe he is implying that freedom earned without struggle is worthless, and that without without regular struggle for that freedom a society slides into complacency.
I also believe he is correct. Taking your liberty for granted is the fastest way to see you deprived of it.
Because he saw what is happening now, happening
bruh