Outside of the Constitution we have no legal authority more than private citizens, and within it we have only so much as that instrument gives us. This broad principle limits all our functions and applies to all subjects.

In this quote, Andrew Johnson emphasizes the importance of the Constitution in defining the legal authority of the government. He argues that outside of the powers granted by the Constitution, public officials or government institutions hold no more legal authority than private citizens. This reflects his belief in the rule of law and the idea that government actions must be constrained by the constitutional framework that outlines its powers and limits.

Johnson’s statement underscores the principle that the Constitution is the supreme legal authority, and any action taken by government officials or bodies must align with its provisions. The phrase "within it we have only so much as that instrument gives us" points to the idea that government power is not unlimited; it is only as broad as the Constitution allows. This principle ensures that the government operates within a clearly defined scope, limiting its reach and protecting individual rights and freedoms.

The origin of this quote comes from Andrew Johnson, the 17th President of the United States, who was known for his political views on states' rights and constitutional limits. Johnson's presidency came during a time of immense political tension following the Civil War, and his interpretation of the Constitution often emphasized a strict adherence to its text, particularly in relation to the powers of the federal government versus those of the states.

By asserting that the Constitution is the foundation of all government authority, Johnson affirms a key tenet of American democracy: that the power of the state is derived from the people and strictly regulated by the Constitution. This perspective is crucial in maintaining the balance of powers and ensuring that no branch of government oversteps its legal bounds.