"It is our duty still to endeavor to avoid war; but if it shall actually take place, no matter by whom brought on, we must defend ourselves. If our house be on fire, without inquiring whether it was fired from within or without, we must try to extinguish it"

This quote by Thomas Jefferson talks to the value of preventing war, but also the requirement of protecting oneself if war is inescapable. Jefferson stresses that it is our responsibility to attempt to prevent war, however if it does occur, we must be prepared to defend ourselves. He likens war to a house on fire, stating that it does not matter whether the fire was begun with within or without, we should still attempt to put it out. This quote speaks with the significance of being gotten ready for war, even if it is not our own doing. It likewise speaks with the value of being proactive in avoiding war, as it is our duty to do so. Eventually, this quote speaks with the importance of being prepared for war, while likewise making every effort to prevent it.