Meaning: This quote by Thomas Jefferson reflects his concern about the power and influence of monied corporations and their potential to challenge the authority of the government and disregard the laws of the country. Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States, was a strong advocate for democracy and believed in the importance of maintaining a balance of power between the government and private institutions.

At the time when Jefferson made this statement, the United States was still a young and developing nation, and the role of corporations in influencing public policy and government decisions was a growing concern. Jefferson's fear of the "aristocracy of our monied corporations" reflects his apprehension about the potential for economic power to undermine the principles of democracy and the rule of law.

Jefferson's reference to the "aristocracy" of monied corporations suggests his belief that these entities were accumulating power and influence that could rival that of the government and threaten the democratic ideals of the nation. His use of the term "aristocracy" emphasizes the concentration of wealth and power in the hands of a few, mirroring the concerns about inequality and the potential for an elite class to dominate society.

The phrase "crush in its birth" indicates Jefferson's desire to prevent the unchecked growth of corporate power and to address the issue before it becomes an entrenched and insurmountable challenge to the government and the rule of law. He saw the potential for corporations to challenge the authority of the government and viewed it as a threat to the stability and integrity of the nation.

Jefferson's emphasis on the need to confront and restrain the influence of monied corporations aligns with his broader commitment to safeguarding the democratic principles of the United States. He believed that the government should serve the interests of the people and that the power of corporations should not be allowed to undermine the democratic process or subvert the will of the citizens.

In today's context, Jefferson's concerns about the influence of monied corporations remain relevant. The role of corporations in shaping public policy, influencing elections, and exerting significant economic and political power continues to be a topic of debate and scrutiny. Issues such as campaign finance, corporate lobbying, and the influence of big business on government decisions are ongoing areas of concern for those who share Jefferson's apprehension about the potential for corporate power to undermine democratic principles.

In conclusion, Thomas Jefferson's quote reflects his deep-seated concerns about the potential for monied corporations to challenge the authority of the government and defy the laws of the country. His emphasis on the need to address this issue at its inception underscores his commitment to preserving the democratic ideals of the nation and preventing the consolidation of unchecked corporate power. Jefferson's words serve as a reminder of the ongoing importance of maintaining a balance of power and ensuring that the influence of corporations does not undermine the principles of democracy and the rule of law.