"The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants."--Thos. Jefferson

While patriots is a word that today conveys a meaning of blind faith, near sycophantism, Jefferson lived in a time when his use of the word meant believers in freedom. It has been the work of centuries to reduce the republic he helped birth to the corrupt empire it has become in it's dotage.

In the sense in which he meant it, all the political prisoners I know of are patriots who have sacrificed their lives and treasure for the freedom we all depend on for our happiness.

Thanks!