6971. PRINTING vs. BARBARISM.—
We have seen, indeed, once within the records
of history, a complete eclipse of the
human mind continuing for centuries. And
this, too, by swarms of the same northern
barbarians, conquering and taking possession
of the countries and governments of the
civilized world. Should this be again attempted,
should the same northern hordes, allured
again by the corn, wine, and oil of the
south, be able again to settle their swarms
in the countries of their growth, the art of
printing alone, and the vast dissemination of
books, will maintain the mind where it is,
and raise the conquering ruffians to the level
of the conquered, instead of degrading these
to that of their conquerors. And even should
the cloud of barbarism and despotism again
obscure the science and liberties of Europe,
this country remains to preserve and restore
light and liberty to them.—
To John Adams. Washington ed. vii, 218.
(M.
1821)
