John Philpot Curran was born 24 July 1750.
He was an Irish politician, wit and lawyer. He was a great speaker well-known for his eloquence. He was a liberal Protestant opposed to the intolerant policy of the Government, and also the Union with Britain.
Here are some of his memorable quotes.
This quote is sometimes attributed to Edmund Burke too.
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The first inventions of commerce are, like those of all other arts, cunning and short-sighted.
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I have never yet heard of a murderer who was not afraid of a ghost.
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The condition upon which God hath given liberty to man is eternal vigilance; which condition if he break, servitude is at once the consequence of his crime, and the punishment of his guilt.
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When I can’t talk sense, I talk metaphor.
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His smile is like the silver plate on a coffin.
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Assassinate me you may; intimidate me you cannot.
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In times of change, learners shall inherit the earth, while the learned are beautifully equipped for a world that no longer exists.
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* * *
The first inventions of commerce are, like those of all other arts, cunning and short-sighted.
* * *
I have never yet heard of a murderer who was not afraid of a ghost.
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