"It is only when the people become ignorant and corrupt, when they degenerate into a populace, that they are incapable of exercising their sovereignty"

This quote by James Monroe speaks to the value of an informed and informed people in order to exercise their sovereignty. He suggests that when people end up being ignorant and corrupt, they are no longer efficient in exercising their sovereignty. This implies that an informed and notified populace is needed for a successful democracy. Monroe is suggesting that when people end up being ignorant and corrupt, they are no longer able to make educated decisions and are unable to exercise their sovereignty. He is also indicating that an illiteracy and knowledge can cause a people that is unable to make decisions that are in their benefits. This quote serves as a pointer of the importance of education and knowledge in order to make sure that a democracy succeeds.