Meaning: The quote you provided is attributed to Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States. The quote reflects Jefferson's frustration and concern about the idea that the sale of a book could be subject to inquiry, and even criminal investigation, in the United States. Jefferson's words express his commitment to the principles of freedom of speech and the press, as well as his opposition to any form of censorship or suppression of information.

During his presidency, Thomas Jefferson was a strong advocate for the protection of civil liberties, including freedom of speech and the press. He believed that the government should not interfere with the dissemination of ideas and information, and that individuals should have the right to express and share their thoughts without fear of reprisal or censorship.

Jefferson's concerns about the sale of a book becoming the subject of inquiry and criminal investigation reflect the broader historical context of the United States at the time. In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, the country was still grappling with issues related to freedom of expression and the role of the government in regulating the dissemination of information. The Alien and Sedition Acts, passed in 1798 during the presidency of John Adams, represented a significant threat to free speech and the press, as they criminalized false statements critical of the government.

As a prominent figure in the founding of the United States and one of the authors of the Declaration of Independence, Jefferson was deeply committed to the principles of individual liberty and limited government. His views on the freedom of the press and the importance of unfettered access to information were shaped by his experiences as a statesman, philosopher, and advocate for democratic principles.

In the modern context, Jefferson's concerns about the potential criminalization of book sales resonate with ongoing debates about censorship, freedom of expression, and the role of government in regulating information. The quote serves as a reminder of the enduring importance of protecting the rights of individuals to access and share information, and the need to remain vigilant against any encroachments on these fundamental liberties.

Jefferson's legacy as a champion of civil liberties and democratic ideals continues to influence discussions and policies related to freedom of speech and the press. His words remind us of the ongoing struggle to uphold these principles in a rapidly changing media landscape and political environment.

In conclusion, Thomas Jefferson's quote reflects his deep-seated commitment to the principles of freedom of speech and the press, as well as his opposition to any form of censorship or government interference in the dissemination of information. His concerns about the potential criminalization of book sales resonate with historical and contemporary debates about the protection of civil liberties and the role of government in regulating the flow of information. Jefferson's words serve as a powerful reminder of the enduring importance of upholding these fundamental rights in a democratic society.