# Quote — Alexis de Tocqueville, Democracy in America

> Step back in time; look closely at the child in the very arms of his mother; see the external world reflected for the first time in the yet unclear mirror of his understanding; study the first examples which strike his eyes; listen to the first words which arouse within him the slumbering power of thought; watch the first struggles which he has to undergo; only then will you comprehend the source of his prejudices, the habits, and the passions which are to rule his life. The entire man, so to speak, comes fully formed in the wrappings of his cradle.

- Author: [Alexis de Tocqueville](https://www.leafyquotes.com/alexis-de-tocqueville.md)
- Book: [Democracy in America](https://www.leafyquotes.com/alexis-de-tocqueville/democracy-in-america.md)
- Source: [Wikiquote](https://en.wikiquote.org/wiki/Alexis_de_Tocqueville#Democracy_in_America,_Volume_I_(1835)) ([CC BY-SA 4.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/))
- Quote page: https://www.leafyquotes.com/alexis-de-tocqueville/democracy-in-america/step-back-in-time

## More from this book

> Translation: In order to enjoy the inestimable benefits that the liberty of the press ensures, it is necessary to submit to the inevitable evils it creates.

[Quote page](https://www.leafyquotes.com/alexis-de-tocqueville/democracy-in-america/translation-in-order.md)

> They (the emperors) frequently abused their power arbitrarily to deprive their subjects of property or of life: their tyranny was extremely onerous to the few, but it did not reach the greater number; .. But it would seem that if despotism were to be established amongst the democratic nations of our days it might assume a different character; it would be more extensive and more mild, it would degrade men without tormenting them.

[Quote page](https://www.leafyquotes.com/alexis-de-tocqueville/democracy-in-america/they-the-emperors.md)

> All those who seek to destroy the liberties of a democratic nation ought to know that war is the surest and shortest means to accomplish it.

[Quote page](https://www.leafyquotes.com/alexis-de-tocqueville/democracy-in-america/all-those-who.md)