"My reading of history convinces me that most bad government results from too much government. That government is best which governs least."
Thomas Jefferson, 3rd President, 1801-1809-This was going to be an easy one. Jefferson may have said something similar but the exact quote has not been found. There are two popular sources. One from Civil Disobedience by Henry David Thoreau. A similar quote is also found in "Thomas Jefferson: His Permanent Influence on American Institutions", John Sharp Williams, (New York: Columbia University Press, 1913), 49..."government is the grantee of powers, and not the grantor of rights; that it is merely the agent, or servant of the people; a trustee acting (if acting rightly)for the people , and not for itself. Our forefathers knew the danger of excess of government and were bent upon so simplifying, limiting and checking it, that it must forever remain a servant and could never become the master. My reading of history convinces me that most bad government has grown out of too much government.The statement , while perhaps not stated nor written by Jefferson, does reflect his political philosophy that the state governments should have more autonomy with less centralized power within the federal government.
Monday, December 26, 2011
January 2
"Our Constitution is designed only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate for any other."
John Adams, 2nd President, 1797-1801-from a letter to the officers of the first brigade of the third division of the militia of the of Massachusetts, October 11, 1798. Adams, who was from Massachusetts, wrote in response to their letter which stated, in part..."We feel pride in the name and character of Americans. It is our glory to be the descendants of ancestors who purchased freedom and independence by their wisdom and valour...May we be inspired with firmness to imitate their virtues and maintain the inheritance purchased by their valour." (Campbell, Maria and Clarke, James Freeman, "Revolutionary Services and Civil Life Of General William Hull", p. 265, D. Appleton & Co, Philadelphia.) Adams replies,"...while our country remains untainted with the principles and manners which are now producing desolation in so many parts of the world; while she continues sincere, and incapable of insidious and impious policy, we shall have the strongest reason to rejoice in the local destination assigned us by Providence. But should the people of America once become capable of that deep simulation towards one another, and towards foreign nations, which assumes the language of justice and moderation while it is practicing iniquity and extravagance, and displays...charming pictures of candor, while it is rioting in rapine and insolence, this country will be the most miserable habitation in the world; because we have no government armed with power capable of contending with human passions unbridled by morality and religion. Avarice, ambition, revenge, or gallantry would break the strongest cords of our Constitution as a whale goes through a net. Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people...That (oath) which you have taken, and so solemnly repeated on that venerable ground, is an ample pledge of your sincerity and devotion to your country and its government."
John Adams, 2nd President, 1797-1801-from a letter to the officers of the first brigade of the third division of the militia of the of Massachusetts, October 11, 1798. Adams, who was from Massachusetts, wrote in response to their letter which stated, in part..."We feel pride in the name and character of Americans. It is our glory to be the descendants of ancestors who purchased freedom and independence by their wisdom and valour...May we be inspired with firmness to imitate their virtues and maintain the inheritance purchased by their valour." (Campbell, Maria and Clarke, James Freeman, "Revolutionary Services and Civil Life Of General William Hull", p. 265, D. Appleton & Co, Philadelphia.) Adams replies,"...while our country remains untainted with the principles and manners which are now producing desolation in so many parts of the world; while she continues sincere, and incapable of insidious and impious policy, we shall have the strongest reason to rejoice in the local destination assigned us by Providence. But should the people of America once become capable of that deep simulation towards one another, and towards foreign nations, which assumes the language of justice and moderation while it is practicing iniquity and extravagance, and displays...charming pictures of candor, while it is rioting in rapine and insolence, this country will be the most miserable habitation in the world; because we have no government armed with power capable of contending with human passions unbridled by morality and religion. Avarice, ambition, revenge, or gallantry would break the strongest cords of our Constitution as a whale goes through a net. Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people...That (oath) which you have taken, and so solemnly repeated on that venerable ground, is an ample pledge of your sincerity and devotion to your country and its government."
January 1- Presidential Sampler
"The time is near at hand which must probably determine whether Americans are to be freemen or slaves; whether thy are to have any property they can call their own; whether their houses and farms are to be pillaged and destroyed, and themselves consigned to a state of wretchedness from which no human efforts will deliver them. The fate of unborn millions will now depend, under God, on the courage and conduct of this army. Our cruel and unrelenting enemy leaves us only the choice of brave resistance, or the most abject submission. We have, therefore, to resolve to conquer or die."
George Washington, 1st president, 1789-1797-From his General Orders written July 2, 1776; also attributed to a speech given to the troops before the Battle of Long Island, August 26, 1776.The great military conflict is about to begin in earnest. The rag-tag band of citizen soldiers (eventually with the aid of military allies)is about to attempt to defeat and repel the most powerful army and navy of its time, along with its hired Hessian mercenary forces. The consequences of defeat would be dire; the rewards of victory would be truly revolutionary."...Our own Country’s Honor, all call upon us for a vigorous and manly exertion, and if we now shamefully fail, we shall become infamous to the whole world. Let us therefore rely upon the goodness of the Cause, and the aid of the supreme Being, in whose hands Victory is, to animate and encourage us to great and noble Actions—The Eyes of all our Countrymen are now upon us, and we shall have their blessings, and praises, if happily we are the instruments of saving them from the Tyranny meditated against them. Let us therefore animate and encourage each other, and shew the whole world, that a Freeman contending for Liberty on his own ground is superior to any slavish mercenary on earth...The General recommends to the officers great coolness in time of action, and to the soldiers a strict attention and obedience with a becoming firmness and spirit. Any officer, or soldier, or any particular Corps, distinguishing themselves by any acts of bravery, and courage, will assuredly meet with notice and rewards; and on the other hand, those who behave ill, will as certainly be exposed and punished—The General being resolved, as well for the Honor and Safety of the Country, as Army, to shew no favour to such as refuse, or neglect their duty at so important a crisis."
George Washington, 1st president, 1789-1797-From his General Orders written July 2, 1776; also attributed to a speech given to the troops before the Battle of Long Island, August 26, 1776.The great military conflict is about to begin in earnest. The rag-tag band of citizen soldiers (eventually with the aid of military allies)is about to attempt to defeat and repel the most powerful army and navy of its time, along with its hired Hessian mercenary forces. The consequences of defeat would be dire; the rewards of victory would be truly revolutionary."...Our own Country’s Honor, all call upon us for a vigorous and manly exertion, and if we now shamefully fail, we shall become infamous to the whole world. Let us therefore rely upon the goodness of the Cause, and the aid of the supreme Being, in whose hands Victory is, to animate and encourage us to great and noble Actions—The Eyes of all our Countrymen are now upon us, and we shall have their blessings, and praises, if happily we are the instruments of saving them from the Tyranny meditated against them. Let us therefore animate and encourage each other, and shew the whole world, that a Freeman contending for Liberty on his own ground is superior to any slavish mercenary on earth...The General recommends to the officers great coolness in time of action, and to the soldiers a strict attention and obedience with a becoming firmness and spirit. Any officer, or soldier, or any particular Corps, distinguishing themselves by any acts of bravery, and courage, will assuredly meet with notice and rewards; and on the other hand, those who behave ill, will as certainly be exposed and punished—The General being resolved, as well for the Honor and Safety of the Country, as Army, to shew no favour to such as refuse, or neglect their duty at so important a crisis."
December 31
"Posterity: you will never know how much it has cost my generation to preserve your freedom. I hope you will make good use of it."
John Adams, 2nd President, 1797-1801-From a letter to his wife, Abigail, April 26, 1777.This letter was written four months after Washington's troops had crossed the Delaware River on Christmas Eve and defeated Hessian troops in a surprise attack. There was not much fighting during the rest of the winter. Britain had started attacking again, attempting to destroy supplies in Connecticut. There was much difficulty in getting troops to re-enlist to continue the struggle for independence. Adams was in Philadelphia with the continental Congress and constantly exchanged letters with his wife, who was staying on their farm in Massachusetts. "... I have been lately more remiss, than usual in Writing to you. There has been a great Dearth of News...I am wearied out, with Expectations that the Massachusetts Troops would have arrived, e'er now, at Head Quarters. -- Do our People intend to leave the Continent in the Lurch? Do they mean to submit? or what Fatality attends them? With the noblest Prize in View, that ever Mortals contended for, and with the fairest Prospect of obtaining it upon easy Terms, The People of the Massachusetts Bay, are dead. Does our State intend to send only half, or a third of their Quota? Do they wish to see another, crippled, disastrous and disgracefull Campaign for Want of an Army? -- I am more sick and more ashamed of my own Countrymen, than ever I was before. The Spleen, the Vapours, the Dismals, the Horrors, seem to have seized our whole State. More Wrath than Terror, has seized me. I am very mad. The gloomy Cowardice of the Times, is intollerable in N. England...Is it not intollerable, that the opening Spring, which I should enjoy with my Wife and Children upon my little Farm, should pass away, and laugh at me, for labouring, Day after Day, and Month after Month, in a Conclave, Where neither Taste, nor Fancy, nor Reason, nor Passion, nor Appetite can be gratified? Posterity! You will never know, how much it cost the present Generation, to preserve your Freedom! I hope you will make a good Use of it. If you do not, I shall repent in Heaven, that I ever took half the Pains to preserve it.
John Adams, 2nd President, 1797-1801-From a letter to his wife, Abigail, April 26, 1777.This letter was written four months after Washington's troops had crossed the Delaware River on Christmas Eve and defeated Hessian troops in a surprise attack. There was not much fighting during the rest of the winter. Britain had started attacking again, attempting to destroy supplies in Connecticut. There was much difficulty in getting troops to re-enlist to continue the struggle for independence. Adams was in Philadelphia with the continental Congress and constantly exchanged letters with his wife, who was staying on their farm in Massachusetts. "... I have been lately more remiss, than usual in Writing to you. There has been a great Dearth of News...I am wearied out, with Expectations that the Massachusetts Troops would have arrived, e'er now, at Head Quarters. -- Do our People intend to leave the Continent in the Lurch? Do they mean to submit? or what Fatality attends them? With the noblest Prize in View, that ever Mortals contended for, and with the fairest Prospect of obtaining it upon easy Terms, The People of the Massachusetts Bay, are dead. Does our State intend to send only half, or a third of their Quota? Do they wish to see another, crippled, disastrous and disgracefull Campaign for Want of an Army? -- I am more sick and more ashamed of my own Countrymen, than ever I was before. The Spleen, the Vapours, the Dismals, the Horrors, seem to have seized our whole State. More Wrath than Terror, has seized me. I am very mad. The gloomy Cowardice of the Times, is intollerable in N. England...Is it not intollerable, that the opening Spring, which I should enjoy with my Wife and Children upon my little Farm, should pass away, and laugh at me, for labouring, Day after Day, and Month after Month, in a Conclave, Where neither Taste, nor Fancy, nor Reason, nor Passion, nor Appetite can be gratified? Posterity! You will never know, how much it cost the present Generation, to preserve your Freedom! I hope you will make a good Use of it. If you do not, I shall repent in Heaven, that I ever took half the Pains to preserve it.
December 30
"Discourage litigation. Persuade your neighbors to compromise whenever you can. As a peacemaker, the lawyer has superior opportunity of being a good man. There will still be business enough."
Abraham Lincoln, 16th President, 1861-1865-from notes for a Law Lecture, dated July 1, 1850.Many of Lincoln's notes and writings were collected and compiled by his former White House secretaries, John Nicolay and John Hay. They eventually compiled a ten volume biography of Lincoln and had careers in government themselves after Lincoln's death. It is not known if Lincoln ever delivered a lecture from these notes.-"...I am not an accomplished lawyer. I find quite as much material for a lecture in those points wherein I have failed, as in those wherein I have been moderately successful. The leading rule for the lawyer, as for the man of every other calling, is diligence. Leave nothing for to-morrow which can be done today...Extemporaneous speaking should be practised and cultivated. It is the lawyer's avenue to the public. However able and faithful he may be in other respects, people are slow to bring him business if he cannot make a speech. And yet there is not a more fatal error to young lawyers than relying too much on speech-making. If any one, upon his rare powers of speaking, shall claim an exemption from the drudgery of the law, his case is a failure in advance...Discourage litigation. Persuade your neighbors to compromise whenever you can. Point out to them how the nominal winner is often a real loser -- in fees, expenses, and waste of time. As a peacemaker the lawyer has a superior opportunity of being a good man. There will still be business enough...(and)resolve to be honest at all events; and if in your own judgment you cannot be an honest lawyer, resolve to be honest without being a lawyer."
Abraham Lincoln, 16th President, 1861-1865-from notes for a Law Lecture, dated July 1, 1850.Many of Lincoln's notes and writings were collected and compiled by his former White House secretaries, John Nicolay and John Hay. They eventually compiled a ten volume biography of Lincoln and had careers in government themselves after Lincoln's death. It is not known if Lincoln ever delivered a lecture from these notes.-"...I am not an accomplished lawyer. I find quite as much material for a lecture in those points wherein I have failed, as in those wherein I have been moderately successful. The leading rule for the lawyer, as for the man of every other calling, is diligence. Leave nothing for to-morrow which can be done today...Extemporaneous speaking should be practised and cultivated. It is the lawyer's avenue to the public. However able and faithful he may be in other respects, people are slow to bring him business if he cannot make a speech. And yet there is not a more fatal error to young lawyers than relying too much on speech-making. If any one, upon his rare powers of speaking, shall claim an exemption from the drudgery of the law, his case is a failure in advance...Discourage litigation. Persuade your neighbors to compromise whenever you can. Point out to them how the nominal winner is often a real loser -- in fees, expenses, and waste of time. As a peacemaker the lawyer has a superior opportunity of being a good man. There will still be business enough...(and)resolve to be honest at all events; and if in your own judgment you cannot be an honest lawyer, resolve to be honest without being a lawyer."
December 29
"I have nothing to fear in my approaching death. To me it is the mere shadow of God's approaching wing."
Andrew Johnson, 17th President, 1865-1869, Born December 29, 1808, died July 31, 1875. These words were written by Johnson in 1873, two years before his death. After his term as President, he had returned to his native state of Tennessee. In the summer of that year there was a severe outbreak of Cholera. Many people left but Johnson and his daughter, Martha, stayed and attempted to aid those who had become sick. Johnson came down with the disease, and near death, had retired to his daughter's house and prepared these words:"I have performed my duty to my God, my country and my family. I have nothing to fear. Approaching death to me is the mere shadow of God’s protecting wing. Beneath it I feel almost sacred. Here I know no evil can come; there will I rest in quiet and peace, beyond the reach of calumny’s poisoned shaft, the influence of envy and jealous enemies, where treason and traitors in state, backsliders and hypocrites in church, can have no place; where the great fact will be realized that God is truth, and gratitude is the highest attribute of man."Johnson did, in fact, recover, was re-elected to the Senate where he suffered a stroke and died in 1875. He was brought home and buried at his home in Greeneville, Tennessee. At his request, he was buried with a rolled up copy of the constitution as his eternal pillow.
Andrew Johnson, 17th President, 1865-1869, Born December 29, 1808, died July 31, 1875. These words were written by Johnson in 1873, two years before his death. After his term as President, he had returned to his native state of Tennessee. In the summer of that year there was a severe outbreak of Cholera. Many people left but Johnson and his daughter, Martha, stayed and attempted to aid those who had become sick. Johnson came down with the disease, and near death, had retired to his daughter's house and prepared these words:"I have performed my duty to my God, my country and my family. I have nothing to fear. Approaching death to me is the mere shadow of God’s protecting wing. Beneath it I feel almost sacred. Here I know no evil can come; there will I rest in quiet and peace, beyond the reach of calumny’s poisoned shaft, the influence of envy and jealous enemies, where treason and traitors in state, backsliders and hypocrites in church, can have no place; where the great fact will be realized that God is truth, and gratitude is the highest attribute of man."Johnson did, in fact, recover, was re-elected to the Senate where he suffered a stroke and died in 1875. He was brought home and buried at his home in Greeneville, Tennessee. At his request, he was buried with a rolled up copy of the constitution as his eternal pillow.
December 28, 1856- Birthdate of Thomas Woodrow Wilson
" We grow great by dreams. Some of us let dreams die, but others nourish and protect them, nurse them through bad days 'til they bring them to sunshine and light."
28th President, 1913-1921
December 27
"Indecision is often worse than wrong action."
Gerald R. Ford, 38th President, 1974-1977
Gerald R. Ford, 38th President, 1974-1977
December 26
"The only thing we have to fear is fear itself- nameless, unreasoning , unjustified terror which paralyzes needed efforts to convert retreat into advance. "
Franklin D. Roosevelt, 32nd President, 1933-1945-First Inaugural Address, Given in Washington, D.C., March 4th, 1933.-Here Roosevelt addresses the nation, beginning his twelve year Presidency, leading the nation out of the Great Depression and through World War II."...This is a day of national consecration, and I am certain that my fellow-Americans expect that on my induction into the Presidency I will address them with a candor and a decision which the present situation of our nation impels. This is pre-eminently the time to speak the truth, the whole truth, frankly and boldly. Nor need we shrink from honestly facing conditions in our country today. This great nation will endure as it has endured, will revive and will prosper. So first of all let me assert my firm belief that the only thing we have to fear. . .is fear itself. . . nameless, unreasoning, unjustified terror which paralyzes needed efforts to convert retreat into advance...Only a foolish optimist can deny the dark realities of the moment. Yet our distress comes from no failure of substance. We are stricken by no plague of locusts. Compared with the perils which our forefathers conquered because they believed and were not afraid, we have still much to be thankful for. Nature still offers her bounty and human efforts have multiplied it. Plenty is at our doorstep, but a generous use of it languishes in the very sight of the supply. Primarily, this is because the rulers of the exchange of mankind's goods have failed through their own stubbornness and their own incompetence, have admitted their failures and abdicated. Practices of the unscrupulous money changers stand indicted in the court of public opinion, rejected by the hearts and minds of men...Our greatest primary task is to put people to work. This is no unsolvable problem if we face it wisely and courageously. It can be accompanied in part by direct recruiting by the government itself, treating the task as we would treat the emergency of a war, but at the same time, through this employment, accomplishing greatly needed projects to stimulate and reorganize the use of our national resources...We face the arduous days that lie before us in the warm courage of national unity, with the clear consciousness of seeking old and precious moral values, with the clean satisfaction that comes from the stern performance of duty by old and young alike... In this dedication of a nation we humbly ask the blessing of God. May He protect each and every one of us! May He guide me in the days to come."
Franklin D. Roosevelt, 32nd President, 1933-1945-First Inaugural Address, Given in Washington, D.C., March 4th, 1933.-Here Roosevelt addresses the nation, beginning his twelve year Presidency, leading the nation out of the Great Depression and through World War II."...This is a day of national consecration, and I am certain that my fellow-Americans expect that on my induction into the Presidency I will address them with a candor and a decision which the present situation of our nation impels. This is pre-eminently the time to speak the truth, the whole truth, frankly and boldly. Nor need we shrink from honestly facing conditions in our country today. This great nation will endure as it has endured, will revive and will prosper. So first of all let me assert my firm belief that the only thing we have to fear. . .is fear itself. . . nameless, unreasoning, unjustified terror which paralyzes needed efforts to convert retreat into advance...Only a foolish optimist can deny the dark realities of the moment. Yet our distress comes from no failure of substance. We are stricken by no plague of locusts. Compared with the perils which our forefathers conquered because they believed and were not afraid, we have still much to be thankful for. Nature still offers her bounty and human efforts have multiplied it. Plenty is at our doorstep, but a generous use of it languishes in the very sight of the supply. Primarily, this is because the rulers of the exchange of mankind's goods have failed through their own stubbornness and their own incompetence, have admitted their failures and abdicated. Practices of the unscrupulous money changers stand indicted in the court of public opinion, rejected by the hearts and minds of men...Our greatest primary task is to put people to work. This is no unsolvable problem if we face it wisely and courageously. It can be accompanied in part by direct recruiting by the government itself, treating the task as we would treat the emergency of a war, but at the same time, through this employment, accomplishing greatly needed projects to stimulate and reorganize the use of our national resources...We face the arduous days that lie before us in the warm courage of national unity, with the clear consciousness of seeking old and precious moral values, with the clean satisfaction that comes from the stern performance of duty by old and young alike... In this dedication of a nation we humbly ask the blessing of God. May He protect each and every one of us! May He guide me in the days to come."
December 25
"Christmas is not a time nor a season, but a state of mind. To cherish peace and goodwill, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of of Christmas."
Calvin Coolidge, 30th President, 1923-1929-From his Christmas Message December 25, 1927-"To the American People ~ Christmas is not a time or a season but a state of mind. To cherish peace and good will, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas. If we think of these things, there will be born in us a Savior and over us will shine a star sending its gleam of hope to the world." In 1927 Charles Lindbergh became the first pilot to fly non-stop across the Atlantic Ocean in his plane, "The Spirit of St. Louis." Also in 1927, the first trans-Atlantic phone call took place, a live demonstration of the television was given to 600 engineers in New York, the Great Mississippi Flood occurred, and production ended for the legendary Ford Model T. In addition, Coolidge had announced he would not run for President for a second full term in 1928. Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig led the 1927 New York Yankees, nick-named Murderer's Row, to the World Series title. Ruth hit his record setting 60 homes runs that year. In 1930, he held out for for a salary of $80,000, which was more than the next President, Herbert Hoover's, salary of $75,000. In response to criticism, Ruth uttered his famous line, "I had a better year than he did."
Calvin Coolidge, 30th President, 1923-1929-From his Christmas Message December 25, 1927-"To the American People ~ Christmas is not a time or a season but a state of mind. To cherish peace and good will, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas. If we think of these things, there will be born in us a Savior and over us will shine a star sending its gleam of hope to the world." In 1927 Charles Lindbergh became the first pilot to fly non-stop across the Atlantic Ocean in his plane, "The Spirit of St. Louis." Also in 1927, the first trans-Atlantic phone call took place, a live demonstration of the television was given to 600 engineers in New York, the Great Mississippi Flood occurred, and production ended for the legendary Ford Model T. In addition, Coolidge had announced he would not run for President for a second full term in 1928. Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig led the 1927 New York Yankees, nick-named Murderer's Row, to the World Series title. Ruth hit his record setting 60 homes runs that year. In 1930, he held out for for a salary of $80,000, which was more than the next President, Herbert Hoover's, salary of $75,000. In response to criticism, Ruth uttered his famous line, "I had a better year than he did."
December 24
"We can afford all that we need; but we cannot afford all that we want."
Franklin D. Roosevelt, 32nd President, 1933-1945-Veto of the Bonus Bill. May 22, 1935-At this time, the United States (and the world) was still trying to climb out of the Great Depression. Roosevelt was implementing the Works Progress Administration to create public work jobs. At its highest point, three million Americans were employed, including World War I veterans. The Bonus Bill was passed by Congress to allow able-bodied Veterans to cash their war benefits ten years early. Roosevelt vetoed the bill and gave his detailed explanation-"...The people and the Government of the United States have shown a proper and generous regard for the sacrifices and patriotism of all of the four and three-quarter million men who were in uniform no matter where they served. At the outbreak of the war, the President and the Congress sought and established an entirely new policy in order to guide the granting of financial aid to soldiers and sailors. Remembering the unfortunate results that came from the lack of a veterans' policy after the Civil War, they determined that a prudent and sound principle of insurance should supplant the uncertainties and unfairness of direct bounties...and generous provision has been made for hospitalization, vocational training and rehabilitation of veterans. You are familiar with this excellent care given to the sick and disabled...(However)The bill before me provides for the immediate payment of the 1945 value of the certificates. It means paying $1,600,000,000 more than the present value of the certificates. It requires an expenditure of more than $2,200,000,000 in cash for this purpose...The herculean task of the United States Government today is to take care that its citizens have the necessities of life. We are seeking honestly and honorably to do this, irrespective of class or group. Rightly, we give preferential treatment to those men who were wounded, disabled, or who became ill as a result of war service. Rightly, we give care to those who subsequently have become ill. The others—and they represent the great majority—are today in the prime of life, are today in full bodily vigor. They are American citizens who should be accorded equal privileges and equal rights to enjoy life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness—no less and no more...We can afford all that we need; but we cannot afford all that we want.
Franklin D. Roosevelt, 32nd President, 1933-1945-Veto of the Bonus Bill. May 22, 1935-At this time, the United States (and the world) was still trying to climb out of the Great Depression. Roosevelt was implementing the Works Progress Administration to create public work jobs. At its highest point, three million Americans were employed, including World War I veterans. The Bonus Bill was passed by Congress to allow able-bodied Veterans to cash their war benefits ten years early. Roosevelt vetoed the bill and gave his detailed explanation-"...The people and the Government of the United States have shown a proper and generous regard for the sacrifices and patriotism of all of the four and three-quarter million men who were in uniform no matter where they served. At the outbreak of the war, the President and the Congress sought and established an entirely new policy in order to guide the granting of financial aid to soldiers and sailors. Remembering the unfortunate results that came from the lack of a veterans' policy after the Civil War, they determined that a prudent and sound principle of insurance should supplant the uncertainties and unfairness of direct bounties...and generous provision has been made for hospitalization, vocational training and rehabilitation of veterans. You are familiar with this excellent care given to the sick and disabled...(However)The bill before me provides for the immediate payment of the 1945 value of the certificates. It means paying $1,600,000,000 more than the present value of the certificates. It requires an expenditure of more than $2,200,000,000 in cash for this purpose...The herculean task of the United States Government today is to take care that its citizens have the necessities of life. We are seeking honestly and honorably to do this, irrespective of class or group. Rightly, we give preferential treatment to those men who were wounded, disabled, or who became ill as a result of war service. Rightly, we give care to those who subsequently have become ill. The others—and they represent the great majority—are today in the prime of life, are today in full bodily vigor. They are American citizens who should be accorded equal privileges and equal rights to enjoy life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness—no less and no more...We can afford all that we need; but we cannot afford all that we want.
December 23
"In matters of style, swim with the current; in matters of principle, stand like a rock."
Thomas Jefferson, 3rd President, 1801-1809
Thomas Jefferson, 3rd President, 1801-1809
December 22
"Speak softly and carry a big stick; you will go far."
Theodore Roosevelt, 26th President, 1901-1909
Theodore Roosevelt, 26th President, 1901-1909
Saturday, December 17, 2011
December 21
"Today we can declare: Government is not the problem, and government is not the solution. We, the American people, we are the solution."
Bill Clinton, 42nd President, 1993-2001
Bill Clinton, 42nd President, 1993-2001
December 20
"Do not pray for easy lives. Pray to be stronger men."
John F. Kennedy, 35th President, 1961-1963- Remarks at the 11th Annual Presidential Prayer Breakfast. February 7, 1963.-Good speakers do their homework. Their words are not always original but are recalled to suit the occasion. Here Kennedy gives credit to the Reverend Phillips Brooks, who was an Episcopal Bishop form Boston in the 1800's."... You and I are charged with obligations to serve the Great Republic in years of great crisis. The problems we face are complex; the pressures are immense, and both the perils and the opportunities are greater than any nation ever faced. In such a time, the limits of mere human endeavor become more apparent than ever. We cannot depend solely on our material wealth, on our military might, or on our intellectual skill or physical courage to see us safely through the seas that we must sail in the months and years to come. Along with all of these we need faith. We need the faith with which our first settlers crossed the sea to carve out a state in the wilderness, a mission they said in the Pilgrims' Compact, the Mayflower Compact, undertaken for the glory of God. We need the faith with which our Founding Fathers proudly proclaimed the independence of this country to what seemed at that time an almost hopeless struggle, pledging their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor with a firm reliance on the protection of divine providence... We are all builders of the future, and whether we build as public servants or private citizens, whether we build at the national or the local level, whether we build in foreign or domestic affairs, we know the truth of the ancient Psalm, "Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it...This country has carried great responsibilities, particularly in the years since the end of the Second War, and I think that willingness to assume those responsibilities has come in part from the strong religious conviction which must carry with it a sense of responsibility to others if it is genuine, which has marked our country from its earliest beginnings, when the recognition of our obligation to God was stated in nearly every public document, down to the present day...let us remember the advice of my fellow Bostonian, the Reverend Phillips Brooks: "Do not pray for easy lives. Pray to be stronger men! Do not pray for tasks equal to your powers. Pray for powers equal to your tasks."
John F. Kennedy, 35th President, 1961-1963- Remarks at the 11th Annual Presidential Prayer Breakfast. February 7, 1963.-Good speakers do their homework. Their words are not always original but are recalled to suit the occasion. Here Kennedy gives credit to the Reverend Phillips Brooks, who was an Episcopal Bishop form Boston in the 1800's."... You and I are charged with obligations to serve the Great Republic in years of great crisis. The problems we face are complex; the pressures are immense, and both the perils and the opportunities are greater than any nation ever faced. In such a time, the limits of mere human endeavor become more apparent than ever. We cannot depend solely on our material wealth, on our military might, or on our intellectual skill or physical courage to see us safely through the seas that we must sail in the months and years to come. Along with all of these we need faith. We need the faith with which our first settlers crossed the sea to carve out a state in the wilderness, a mission they said in the Pilgrims' Compact, the Mayflower Compact, undertaken for the glory of God. We need the faith with which our Founding Fathers proudly proclaimed the independence of this country to what seemed at that time an almost hopeless struggle, pledging their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor with a firm reliance on the protection of divine providence... We are all builders of the future, and whether we build as public servants or private citizens, whether we build at the national or the local level, whether we build in foreign or domestic affairs, we know the truth of the ancient Psalm, "Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it...This country has carried great responsibilities, particularly in the years since the end of the Second War, and I think that willingness to assume those responsibilities has come in part from the strong religious conviction which must carry with it a sense of responsibility to others if it is genuine, which has marked our country from its earliest beginnings, when the recognition of our obligation to God was stated in nearly every public document, down to the present day...let us remember the advice of my fellow Bostonian, the Reverend Phillips Brooks: "Do not pray for easy lives. Pray to be stronger men! Do not pray for tasks equal to your powers. Pray for powers equal to your tasks."
December 19
"There is not in all America a more dangerous trait than the deification of mere smartness unaccompanied by any sense of moral responsibility."
Theodore Roosevelt, 26th President, 1901-1909
Theodore Roosevelt, 26th President, 1901-1909
December 18
"The great French Marshal Lyautey once asked his gardener to plant a tree-The gardener objected that the tree was slow growing and would not reach maturity for 100 years. The Marshal replied, "In that case, there is no time to lose, plant it this afternoon."
John F. Kennedy, 35th President, 1961-1963-from Address at Berkeley Memorial Stadium, March 23, 1962.Kennedy acknowledges the contribution students and graduates had made 100 years after the founding of Berkeley and the University of California system; and urges the students to work to develop the world which is to be a 100 years in the future.-"...I am delighted to be here on this occasion for though it is the 94th anniversary of the Charter, in a sense this is the 100th anniversary. For this university and so many other universities across our country owe their birth to the most extraordinary piece of legislation this country has ever adopted, and that is the Morrill Act, signed by President Abraham Lincoln in the darkest and most uncertain days of the Civil War, which set before the country the opportunity to build the great land grant Colleges of which this is so distinguished a part. Six years later, this university obtained its Charter. In its first graduating class it included a future Governor of California, a future Congressman, a judge, a State assemblyman, a clergyman, a lawyer, a doctor--all in a graduating class of 12 students. This college, therefore, from its earliest beginnings, has recognized, and its graduates have recognized, that the purpose of education is not merely to advance the economic self-interest of its graduates... Prince Bismarck once said, "One third of the students of German universities broke down from overwork, another third broke down from dissipation, and the other third ruled Germany. I do not know which third of students are here today, but I am confident that I am talking to the future leaders of this State and country who recognize their responsibility to the public interest...As we press forward on every front to realize a flexible world order, the role of the university becomes ever more important, both as a reservoir of ideas and as a repository of the long view of the shore dimly seen...In its light we must think and act not only for the moment but for our time. I am reminded of the story of the great French Marshal Lyautey, who once asked his gardener to plant a tree. The gardener objected that the tree was slow-growing and would not reach maturity for a hundred years. The Marshal replied: "In that case, there is no time to lose, plant it this afternoon." Today, a world of knowledge--a world of cooperation--a just and lasting peace--may be years away. But we have no time to lose. Let us plant our trees this afternoon.
John F. Kennedy, 35th President, 1961-1963-from Address at Berkeley Memorial Stadium, March 23, 1962.Kennedy acknowledges the contribution students and graduates had made 100 years after the founding of Berkeley and the University of California system; and urges the students to work to develop the world which is to be a 100 years in the future.-"...I am delighted to be here on this occasion for though it is the 94th anniversary of the Charter, in a sense this is the 100th anniversary. For this university and so many other universities across our country owe their birth to the most extraordinary piece of legislation this country has ever adopted, and that is the Morrill Act, signed by President Abraham Lincoln in the darkest and most uncertain days of the Civil War, which set before the country the opportunity to build the great land grant Colleges of which this is so distinguished a part. Six years later, this university obtained its Charter. In its first graduating class it included a future Governor of California, a future Congressman, a judge, a State assemblyman, a clergyman, a lawyer, a doctor--all in a graduating class of 12 students. This college, therefore, from its earliest beginnings, has recognized, and its graduates have recognized, that the purpose of education is not merely to advance the economic self-interest of its graduates... Prince Bismarck once said, "One third of the students of German universities broke down from overwork, another third broke down from dissipation, and the other third ruled Germany. I do not know which third of students are here today, but I am confident that I am talking to the future leaders of this State and country who recognize their responsibility to the public interest...As we press forward on every front to realize a flexible world order, the role of the university becomes ever more important, both as a reservoir of ideas and as a repository of the long view of the shore dimly seen...In its light we must think and act not only for the moment but for our time. I am reminded of the story of the great French Marshal Lyautey, who once asked his gardener to plant a tree. The gardener objected that the tree was slow-growing and would not reach maturity for a hundred years. The Marshal replied: "In that case, there is no time to lose, plant it this afternoon." Today, a world of knowledge--a world of cooperation--a just and lasting peace--may be years away. But we have no time to lose. Let us plant our trees this afternoon.
December 17
"Those who trust to chance must abide by the rules of chance."
Calvin Coolidge, 30th President, 1923-1929- attributed to Coolidge. We will take occasion here to remark upon Coolidges's Inaugural address from March 4, 1925. In the era of prosperity know as "The Roaring Twenties", The Great War,(World War I) had ended seven years earlier, Prohibition was in effect, Coolidge had taken over the Presidency after the death of Warren Harding and had been elected in his own right and the country was transitioning back to a peacetime economy...-"Already we have sufficiently rearranged our domestic affairs so that confidence has returned, business has revived, and we appear to be entering an era of prosperity which is gradually reaching into every part of the Nation. Realizing that we can not live unto ourselves alone, we have contributed of our resources and our counsel to the relief of the suffering and the settlement of the disputes among the European nations. Because of what America is and what America has done, a firmer courage, a higher hope, inspires the heart of all humanity. These results have not occurred by mere chance. They have been secured by a constant and enlightened effort marked by many sacrifices and extending over many generations...I favor the policy of economy, not because I wish to save money, but because I wish to save people. The men and women of this country who toil are the ones who bear the cost of the Government. Every dollar that we carelessly waste means that their life will be so much the more meager. Every dollar that we prudently save means that their life will be so much the more abundant. Economy is idealism in its most practical form...The wisest and soundest method of solving our tax problem is through economy. Fortunately, of all the great nations this country is best in a position to adopt that simple remedy. We do not any longer need wartime revenues. The collection of any taxes which are not absolutely required, which do not beyond reasonable doubt contribute to the public welfare, is only a species of legalized larceny. Under this republic the rewards of industry belong to those who earn them..." Coolidge did not run for re-election in 1928 and was followed in the Presidency by Herbert Hoover.
Calvin Coolidge, 30th President, 1923-1929- attributed to Coolidge. We will take occasion here to remark upon Coolidges's Inaugural address from March 4, 1925. In the era of prosperity know as "The Roaring Twenties", The Great War,(World War I) had ended seven years earlier, Prohibition was in effect, Coolidge had taken over the Presidency after the death of Warren Harding and had been elected in his own right and the country was transitioning back to a peacetime economy...-"Already we have sufficiently rearranged our domestic affairs so that confidence has returned, business has revived, and we appear to be entering an era of prosperity which is gradually reaching into every part of the Nation. Realizing that we can not live unto ourselves alone, we have contributed of our resources and our counsel to the relief of the suffering and the settlement of the disputes among the European nations. Because of what America is and what America has done, a firmer courage, a higher hope, inspires the heart of all humanity. These results have not occurred by mere chance. They have been secured by a constant and enlightened effort marked by many sacrifices and extending over many generations...I favor the policy of economy, not because I wish to save money, but because I wish to save people. The men and women of this country who toil are the ones who bear the cost of the Government. Every dollar that we carelessly waste means that their life will be so much the more meager. Every dollar that we prudently save means that their life will be so much the more abundant. Economy is idealism in its most practical form...The wisest and soundest method of solving our tax problem is through economy. Fortunately, of all the great nations this country is best in a position to adopt that simple remedy. We do not any longer need wartime revenues. The collection of any taxes which are not absolutely required, which do not beyond reasonable doubt contribute to the public welfare, is only a species of legalized larceny. Under this republic the rewards of industry belong to those who earn them..." Coolidge did not run for re-election in 1928 and was followed in the Presidency by Herbert Hoover.
December 16
"In any moment of decision, the best thing you can do is the right thing, the next best thing is the wrong thing, and the worst thing you can do is nothing."
Theodore Roosevelt, 26th President, 1901-1909-This quote is attributed to Roosevelt though there seems to be no reliable source. Perhaps here we could refer to Roosevelt's speech in Chicago in 1899, "The Strenuous Life." At that time America stood at the edge of becoming a world power and expanding its influence in the Caribbean Sea and in the Pacific, becoming involved in the Philippine Islands, named for the Spanish King Philip, ruler during the 1500's."- In speaking to you, men of the greatest city of the West, men of the State which gave to the country Lincoln and Grant, men who pre-eminently and distinctly embody all that is most American in the American character, I wish to preach, not the doctrine of ignoble ease, but the doctrine of the strenuous life, the life of toil and effort, of labor and strife; to preach that highest form of success which comes, not to the man who desires mere easy peace, but to the man who does not shrink from danger, from hardship, or from bitter toil, and who out of these wins the splendid ultimate triumph....We do not admire the man of timid peace. We admire the man who embodies victorious effort; the man who never wrongs his neighbor, who is prompt to help a friend, but who has those virile qualities necessary to win in the stern strife of actual life. It is hard to fail, but it is worse never to have tried to succeed. In this life we get nothing save by effort... If we undertake the solution, there is, of course, always danger that we may not solve it aright; but to refuse to undertake the solution simply renders it certain that we cannot possibly solve it aright. The twentieth century looms before us big with the fate of many nations. If we stand idly by, if we seek merely swollen, slothful ease and ignoble peace, if we shrink from the hard contests where men must win at hazard of their lives and at the risk of all they hold dear, then the bolder and stronger peoples will pass us by, and will win for themselves the domination of the world.
Theodore Roosevelt, 26th President, 1901-1909-This quote is attributed to Roosevelt though there seems to be no reliable source. Perhaps here we could refer to Roosevelt's speech in Chicago in 1899, "The Strenuous Life." At that time America stood at the edge of becoming a world power and expanding its influence in the Caribbean Sea and in the Pacific, becoming involved in the Philippine Islands, named for the Spanish King Philip, ruler during the 1500's."- In speaking to you, men of the greatest city of the West, men of the State which gave to the country Lincoln and Grant, men who pre-eminently and distinctly embody all that is most American in the American character, I wish to preach, not the doctrine of ignoble ease, but the doctrine of the strenuous life, the life of toil and effort, of labor and strife; to preach that highest form of success which comes, not to the man who desires mere easy peace, but to the man who does not shrink from danger, from hardship, or from bitter toil, and who out of these wins the splendid ultimate triumph....We do not admire the man of timid peace. We admire the man who embodies victorious effort; the man who never wrongs his neighbor, who is prompt to help a friend, but who has those virile qualities necessary to win in the stern strife of actual life. It is hard to fail, but it is worse never to have tried to succeed. In this life we get nothing save by effort... If we undertake the solution, there is, of course, always danger that we may not solve it aright; but to refuse to undertake the solution simply renders it certain that we cannot possibly solve it aright. The twentieth century looms before us big with the fate of many nations. If we stand idly by, if we seek merely swollen, slothful ease and ignoble peace, if we shrink from the hard contests where men must win at hazard of their lives and at the risk of all they hold dear, then the bolder and stronger peoples will pass us by, and will win for themselves the domination of the world.
December 15
"I hope we shall take warning from the example of England and crush in its birth the aristocracy of our moneyed corporations which dare already to challenge our Government to trial, and bid defiance the laws of our country."
Thomas Jefferson. 3rd President, 1801-1809
- from a letter to George Logan, November 12, 1816.- George Logan was the great grandson of James Logan, who was the secretary of William Penn, founder of Pennsylvania. George was a medical doctor, farmer, and senator from Pennsylvania. Jefferson called him the greatest farmer in Pennsylvania. Logan married Debra Norris whose diaries are preserved, giving a great account of life in Philadelphia after the revolution. Perhaps the above quote and following explanation may be understood in the context of a previous letter written by Jefferson: Merchants have no country. The mere spot they stand on does not constitute so strong an attachment as that from which they draw their gains. – Letter to Horatio G. Spafford (17 March 1814) Jefferson's letter to Logan states...."Your idea of the moral obligations of governments are perfectly correct. The man who is dishonest as a statesman would be a dishonest man in any station... It is a great consolation to me that our government, as it cherishes most it's duties to its own citizens, so is it the most exact in it's moral conduct towards other nations. I do not believe that in the four administrations which have taken place, there has been a single instance of departure from good faith towards other nations. We may sometimes have mistaken our rights, or made an erroneous estimate of the actions of others, but no voluntary wrong can be imputed to us. In this respect England exhibits the most remarkable phenomenon in the universe in the contrast between the profligacy of its government and the probity of its citizens. And accordingly it is now exhibiting an example of the truth of the maxim that virtue & interest are inseparable. It ends, as might have been expected, in the ruin of its people, but this ruin will fall heaviest, as it ought to fall on that hereditary aristocracy which has for generations been preparing the catastrophe." At this point, please allow a small vocabulary lesson: Profligacy could be defined as wantonness or immorality (of England's government and aristocracy) and probity as uprightness or integrity (of England's citizens). If the intent of the governors of a nation is self enrichment, the nation will fall. Conversely, if the intent is for the good of the nation and its people, the nation will stand.
Thomas Jefferson. 3rd President, 1801-1809
- from a letter to George Logan, November 12, 1816.- George Logan was the great grandson of James Logan, who was the secretary of William Penn, founder of Pennsylvania. George was a medical doctor, farmer, and senator from Pennsylvania. Jefferson called him the greatest farmer in Pennsylvania. Logan married Debra Norris whose diaries are preserved, giving a great account of life in Philadelphia after the revolution. Perhaps the above quote and following explanation may be understood in the context of a previous letter written by Jefferson: Merchants have no country. The mere spot they stand on does not constitute so strong an attachment as that from which they draw their gains. – Letter to Horatio G. Spafford (17 March 1814) Jefferson's letter to Logan states...."Your idea of the moral obligations of governments are perfectly correct. The man who is dishonest as a statesman would be a dishonest man in any station... It is a great consolation to me that our government, as it cherishes most it's duties to its own citizens, so is it the most exact in it's moral conduct towards other nations. I do not believe that in the four administrations which have taken place, there has been a single instance of departure from good faith towards other nations. We may sometimes have mistaken our rights, or made an erroneous estimate of the actions of others, but no voluntary wrong can be imputed to us. In this respect England exhibits the most remarkable phenomenon in the universe in the contrast between the profligacy of its government and the probity of its citizens. And accordingly it is now exhibiting an example of the truth of the maxim that virtue & interest are inseparable. It ends, as might have been expected, in the ruin of its people, but this ruin will fall heaviest, as it ought to fall on that hereditary aristocracy which has for generations been preparing the catastrophe." At this point, please allow a small vocabulary lesson: Profligacy could be defined as wantonness or immorality (of England's government and aristocracy) and probity as uprightness or integrity (of England's citizens). If the intent of the governors of a nation is self enrichment, the nation will fall. Conversely, if the intent is for the good of the nation and its people, the nation will stand.
December 14
"I recognize the right and duty of this generation to develop and use the natural resources of our land, but I do not recognize the right to waste them, or to rob, by wasteful use, the generations that come after us...There can be no greater issue than that of conservation in this country."
Theodore Roosevelt, 26th President, 1901-1909
Theodore Roosevelt, 26th President, 1901-1909
December 13
"I will never forget that the only reason I'm standing here today is because somebody somewhere stood up for me when it was risky...when it was hard, wasn't popular. And because that somebody stood up, a few more, and then a few thousand, and then a few million stood up. And standing up with courage and clear purpose they somehow managed to change the world."
Barack Obama, 44th President, 2009- -Remarks at the Democratic National Committee Fall Meeting in Washington, DC November 30, 2007Senator Obama was swept into office in 2008, gaining almost rock-star like popularity with great crowds at his speeches and rallies. Here he lays out his case for election to his fellow Democrats:"...This party - the party of Jefferson and Jackson; of Roosevelt and Kennedy - has always made the biggest difference in the lives of the American people when we led, not by polls, but by principle; not by calculation, but by conviction; when we summoned the entire nation to a common purpose - a higher purpose. And I run for the Presidency of the United States of America because that's the party America needs us to be right now. A party that doesn't just offer change as a slogan, but real, meaningful change - change that America can believe in...That is why I am in it. I'm in this race because I want to stop talking about the outrage of 47 million Americans without health care and start actually doing something about it. I expanded health care in Illinois by bringing Democrats and Republicans together. By taking on the insurance industry. And I have put forth a universal health care plan that will do more to cut the cost of health care than any other proposal in this race... I'm in this race for the same reason that I fought for jobs for the jobless and hope for the hopeless on the streets of Chicago; for the same reason I fought for justice and equality as a civil rights lawyer; for the same reason that I fought for Illinois families for over a decade. Because I will never forget that the only reason that I'm standing here today is because somebody, somewhere stood up for me when it was risky. Stood up when it was hard. Stood up when it wasn't popular. And because that somebody stood up, a few more stood up. And then a few thousand stood up. And then a few million stood up. And standing up, with courage and clear purpose, they somehow managed to change the world. That's why I'm running, Democrats - to give our children and grandchildren the same chances somebody gave me.
Barack Obama, 44th President, 2009- -Remarks at the Democratic National Committee Fall Meeting in Washington, DC November 30, 2007Senator Obama was swept into office in 2008, gaining almost rock-star like popularity with great crowds at his speeches and rallies. Here he lays out his case for election to his fellow Democrats:"...This party - the party of Jefferson and Jackson; of Roosevelt and Kennedy - has always made the biggest difference in the lives of the American people when we led, not by polls, but by principle; not by calculation, but by conviction; when we summoned the entire nation to a common purpose - a higher purpose. And I run for the Presidency of the United States of America because that's the party America needs us to be right now. A party that doesn't just offer change as a slogan, but real, meaningful change - change that America can believe in...That is why I am in it. I'm in this race because I want to stop talking about the outrage of 47 million Americans without health care and start actually doing something about it. I expanded health care in Illinois by bringing Democrats and Republicans together. By taking on the insurance industry. And I have put forth a universal health care plan that will do more to cut the cost of health care than any other proposal in this race... I'm in this race for the same reason that I fought for jobs for the jobless and hope for the hopeless on the streets of Chicago; for the same reason I fought for justice and equality as a civil rights lawyer; for the same reason that I fought for Illinois families for over a decade. Because I will never forget that the only reason that I'm standing here today is because somebody, somewhere stood up for me when it was risky. Stood up when it was hard. Stood up when it wasn't popular. And because that somebody stood up, a few more stood up. And then a few thousand stood up. And then a few million stood up. And standing up, with courage and clear purpose, they somehow managed to change the world. That's why I'm running, Democrats - to give our children and grandchildren the same chances somebody gave me.
December 12
"Shake off all the fears of servile prejudices...Fix reason firmly in her seat. Question with boldness even the existence of a God; because if there be one, he must more approve of the homage of reason than that of blindfolded fear."
Thomas Jefferson, 3rd President, 1801-1809- from a letter to Peter Carr, Jefferson's nephew, from Paris, August 10, 1787.Jefferson congratulates his nephew for studying under George Wythe, Jefferson's professor at the college of William and Mary and a signer of the Declaration of Independence. Here Jefferson gives advice to his nephew on the subjects of language, moral philosophy, religion, and gaining life experience through traveling. The underlying theme of the letter seems to advise his nephew to examine both sides of any issue and to formulate his own opinion, no matter what popular opinion may be..."(of)Religion. Your reason is now mature enough to examine this object. In the first place, divest yourself of all bias in favor of novelty & singularity of opinion. Indulge them in any other subject rather than that of religion. It is too important, and the consequences of error may be too serious. On the other hand, shake off all the fears & servile prejudices, under which weak minds are servilely crouched. Fix reason firmly in her seat, and call to her tribunal every fact, every opinion. Question with boldness even the existence of a God; because if there be one, he must more approve of the homage of reason than that of blindfolded fear....Do not be frightened from this inquiry by any fear of its consequences. If it ends in a belief that there is no God, you will find incitements to virtue in the comfort and pleasantness you feel in its exercise, and the love of others which it will procure you. If you find reason to believe there is a God, a consciousness that you are acting under his eye, & that he approves you, will be a vast additional incitement."
Thomas Jefferson, 3rd President, 1801-1809- from a letter to Peter Carr, Jefferson's nephew, from Paris, August 10, 1787.Jefferson congratulates his nephew for studying under George Wythe, Jefferson's professor at the college of William and Mary and a signer of the Declaration of Independence. Here Jefferson gives advice to his nephew on the subjects of language, moral philosophy, religion, and gaining life experience through traveling. The underlying theme of the letter seems to advise his nephew to examine both sides of any issue and to formulate his own opinion, no matter what popular opinion may be..."(of)Religion. Your reason is now mature enough to examine this object. In the first place, divest yourself of all bias in favor of novelty & singularity of opinion. Indulge them in any other subject rather than that of religion. It is too important, and the consequences of error may be too serious. On the other hand, shake off all the fears & servile prejudices, under which weak minds are servilely crouched. Fix reason firmly in her seat, and call to her tribunal every fact, every opinion. Question with boldness even the existence of a God; because if there be one, he must more approve of the homage of reason than that of blindfolded fear....Do not be frightened from this inquiry by any fear of its consequences. If it ends in a belief that there is no God, you will find incitements to virtue in the comfort and pleasantness you feel in its exercise, and the love of others which it will procure you. If you find reason to believe there is a God, a consciousness that you are acting under his eye, & that he approves you, will be a vast additional incitement."
December 11
"Our earnest prayer is that God will graciously vouchsafe prosperity, happiness, and peace to all our neighbors, and like blessings to all peoples and powers of the earth."
William McKinley, 25th President, 1897-1901- from McKinley's last speech given September 5, 1901 at the Pan-American Exposition, Buffalo, New York.McKinley had advocated tariffs to protect and encourage American industry and production. As America began to prosper he now advocated expanding trade between the nations of the American hemisphere. "...A system which provides a mutual exchange of commodities is manifestly essential to the continued and healthful growth of our export trade. We must not repose in fancied security that we can forever sell everything and buy little or nothing...What we produce beyond our domestic consumption must have a vent abroad...(and) the buying will enlarge our sales and productions, and thereby make a greater demand for home labor. Reciprocity treaties are in harmony with the spirit of the times...Our earnest prayer is that God will graciously vouchsafe prosperity, happiness, and peace to all our neighbors, and like blessings to all peoples and powers of the earth." -In fact these are the last words of McKinley's last speech before he was shot by an anarchist the following afternoon at a short ten minute reception reception at the exposition. Doctors were unable to find the bullet and it was thought McKinley would recover. However, a week later he took a turn for the worse and died at 2:15 in the morning of September 14, 1901. Vice President, Theodore Roosevelt, was sworn into office as the next and youngest President of our nation. The assassin was tried and executed October 29, 1901. McKinley became the third President to have been assassinated.
William McKinley, 25th President, 1897-1901- from McKinley's last speech given September 5, 1901 at the Pan-American Exposition, Buffalo, New York.McKinley had advocated tariffs to protect and encourage American industry and production. As America began to prosper he now advocated expanding trade between the nations of the American hemisphere. "...A system which provides a mutual exchange of commodities is manifestly essential to the continued and healthful growth of our export trade. We must not repose in fancied security that we can forever sell everything and buy little or nothing...What we produce beyond our domestic consumption must have a vent abroad...(and) the buying will enlarge our sales and productions, and thereby make a greater demand for home labor. Reciprocity treaties are in harmony with the spirit of the times...Our earnest prayer is that God will graciously vouchsafe prosperity, happiness, and peace to all our neighbors, and like blessings to all peoples and powers of the earth." -In fact these are the last words of McKinley's last speech before he was shot by an anarchist the following afternoon at a short ten minute reception reception at the exposition. Doctors were unable to find the bullet and it was thought McKinley would recover. However, a week later he took a turn for the worse and died at 2:15 in the morning of September 14, 1901. Vice President, Theodore Roosevelt, was sworn into office as the next and youngest President of our nation. The assassin was tried and executed October 29, 1901. McKinley became the third President to have been assassinated.
December 10
"I do not believe in the divinity of Christ, and there are many other of the postulates of the orthodox creed to which I can not subscribe."
William H. Taft, 27th President, 1909-1913
William H. Taft, 27th President, 1909-1913
December 9
"The Almighty has His own purposes. The prayers of both could not be answered. If American slavery He now wills to remove, He gives to both North and South this terrible war as the woe due to those by which the offense came. ..Fondly do we hope, fervently do we pray that this mighty scourge of war may speedily pass away. "
Abraham Lincoln, 16th President, 1861-1865- from his Second Inaugural Address Saturday, March 4, 1865-The Civil War was still going on but would soon end with Lee's surrender to Grant on April 9. Lincoln was shot and assassinated on April 14, and died the following morning of April 15. In attendance at this brief address was the assassin, John Wilkes Booth, a popular actor of that era..."Both parties deprecated war, but one of them would make war rather than let the nation survive, and the other would accept war rather than let it perish, and the war came... Both read the same Bible and pray to the same God, and each invokes His aid against the other. It may seem strange that any men should dare to ask a just God's assistance in wringing their bread from the sweat of other men's faces, but let us judge not, that we be not judged. The prayers of both could not be answered. That of neither has been answered fully. The Almighty has His own purposes... With malice toward none, with charity for all, with firmness in the right as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in, to bind up the nation's wounds, to care for him who shall have borne the battle and for his widow and his orphan, to do all which may achieve and cherish a just and lasting peace among ourselves and with all nations."
Abraham Lincoln, 16th President, 1861-1865- from his Second Inaugural Address Saturday, March 4, 1865-The Civil War was still going on but would soon end with Lee's surrender to Grant on April 9. Lincoln was shot and assassinated on April 14, and died the following morning of April 15. In attendance at this brief address was the assassin, John Wilkes Booth, a popular actor of that era..."Both parties deprecated war, but one of them would make war rather than let the nation survive, and the other would accept war rather than let it perish, and the war came... Both read the same Bible and pray to the same God, and each invokes His aid against the other. It may seem strange that any men should dare to ask a just God's assistance in wringing their bread from the sweat of other men's faces, but let us judge not, that we be not judged. The prayers of both could not be answered. That of neither has been answered fully. The Almighty has His own purposes... With malice toward none, with charity for all, with firmness in the right as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in, to bind up the nation's wounds, to care for him who shall have borne the battle and for his widow and his orphan, to do all which may achieve and cherish a just and lasting peace among ourselves and with all nations."
December 8
"Far and away the best prize that life offers is the chance to work hard at work worth doing."
Theodore Roosevelt, 26th President, 1901-1905
Theodore Roosevelt, 26th President, 1901-1905
December 7
"We, and all others who believe in Freedom as deeply as we do, would rather die on our feet than live on our knees."
Franklin D. Roosevelt, 32nd President, 1933-1945
Franklin D. Roosevelt, 32nd President, 1933-1945
December 6
"An atheist is a man who watches a Notre Dame-Southern Methodist University game and doesn't care who wins."
Dwight D. Eisenhower, 34th President, 1953-1961- There seems to be some dispute as to whether Eisenhower actually made this statement. Eisenhower was born in Texas, grew up in Kansas, and was stationed in Texas for a time as he began his Army career. He was supporter of Southern Methodist University, near Dallas. The statement is also sometimes attributed to comedian, Bob Hope, who was also a contributor to Southern Methodist University. In 1954 both schools had outstanding football teams and on December 4, 1954, Southern Methodist did play Notre Dame at The Cotton Bowl in front of 75,000 fans, losing 26-14. In any case, Eisenhower was a football fan and did play football while a student at West Point, which he attended from 1911-1915. He reportedly was injured at one point while tackling the legendary Jim Thorpe. As President, Eisenhower instructed new superintendent of West Point, William Westmoreland, to "Do something about that damned football team."
Dwight D. Eisenhower, 34th President, 1953-1961- There seems to be some dispute as to whether Eisenhower actually made this statement. Eisenhower was born in Texas, grew up in Kansas, and was stationed in Texas for a time as he began his Army career. He was supporter of Southern Methodist University, near Dallas. The statement is also sometimes attributed to comedian, Bob Hope, who was also a contributor to Southern Methodist University. In 1954 both schools had outstanding football teams and on December 4, 1954, Southern Methodist did play Notre Dame at The Cotton Bowl in front of 75,000 fans, losing 26-14. In any case, Eisenhower was a football fan and did play football while a student at West Point, which he attended from 1911-1915. He reportedly was injured at one point while tackling the legendary Jim Thorpe. As President, Eisenhower instructed new superintendent of West Point, William Westmoreland, to "Do something about that damned football team."
December 5,1782- Birthdate of Martin Van Buren
"It is easier to do a job right than to explain why you didn't."
8th President, 1837-1841
8th President, 1837-1841
December 4
"All men are equal before fish."
Herbert Hoover, 31st President, 1929-1933- from Florida Speaks, September, 1951- After the end of world War II in 1945, the United States surged forward, with industry converting to peacetime production and suburbs being built for now growing families. Such growth brought good and bad with it. Technology brought new products and prosperity brought more leisure time. With "progress" came stress and the building over of open land. One of Hoover's avocations was fishing and he expounded on the benefits of fishing and getting back to nature- "...We have great machinery for joy, some of it destructive, some of it synthetic, much of it mass production. We go to chain theaters and movies. We watch somebody else knock a ball over the fence or kick it over the goal post. I do that and I believe in it. But these forms of organized joy are sadly lacking in the beatitudes which surround the fish. We gain none of the lift of soul coming from a return to the solemnity, the calm, and the inspiration of primitive nature... It is the chance to wash one's soul with pure air, with the rush of the brook, or with the shimmer of the sun on blue water. It brings meekness and inspiration from the decency of nature, charity toward tackle makers, patience toward fish, a mockery of profits and egos, a quieting of hate, a rejoicing that you do not have to decide a darned thing until next week. And it is discipline in the equality of men-for all men are equal before fish."
Herbert Hoover, 31st President, 1929-1933- from Florida Speaks, September, 1951- After the end of world War II in 1945, the United States surged forward, with industry converting to peacetime production and suburbs being built for now growing families. Such growth brought good and bad with it. Technology brought new products and prosperity brought more leisure time. With "progress" came stress and the building over of open land. One of Hoover's avocations was fishing and he expounded on the benefits of fishing and getting back to nature- "...We have great machinery for joy, some of it destructive, some of it synthetic, much of it mass production. We go to chain theaters and movies. We watch somebody else knock a ball over the fence or kick it over the goal post. I do that and I believe in it. But these forms of organized joy are sadly lacking in the beatitudes which surround the fish. We gain none of the lift of soul coming from a return to the solemnity, the calm, and the inspiration of primitive nature... It is the chance to wash one's soul with pure air, with the rush of the brook, or with the shimmer of the sun on blue water. It brings meekness and inspiration from the decency of nature, charity toward tackle makers, patience toward fish, a mockery of profits and egos, a quieting of hate, a rejoicing that you do not have to decide a darned thing until next week. And it is discipline in the equality of men-for all men are equal before fish."
December 3
"I say to you: Search the Scriptures! The bible is the book of all others, to be read at all ages, and in all conditions of human life; not to be read once or twice or thrice...but to be read in small portions every day."
John Quincy Adams, 6th President, 1825-1829- from a letter to the officers of a Baltimore Literary Society, June 22, 1838,apparently in reply to a request for a recommended reading list: "... I could scarcely name any list of books, or of authors, which I could recommend as equally worthy of attention to you all. The first, and almost the only book, deserving such universal recommendation, is THE BIBLE—The Bible is the book, of all others, to be read at all ages, and in all conditions of human life; not to be read once or twice or thrice through, and then to be laid aside but to be read in small portions of one or two chapters, every day, and never to be intermitted, unless by some overruling necessity...attentive and repeated reading of the Bible, in small portions every day, leads the mind to habitual meditation upon subjects of the highest interest to the welfare of the individual in this world...It furnishes rules of conduct for our conduct towards others in our social relations... If ever you tire of them in seeking for a rule of faith and a standard of morals, search them as records of history... It is a book which neither the most ignorant and weakest, nor the most learned and intelligent mind can read without improvement." I remain your friend and fellow-student for life, J. Q. ADAMS.
John Quincy Adams, 6th President, 1825-1829- from a letter to the officers of a Baltimore Literary Society, June 22, 1838,apparently in reply to a request for a recommended reading list: "... I could scarcely name any list of books, or of authors, which I could recommend as equally worthy of attention to you all. The first, and almost the only book, deserving such universal recommendation, is THE BIBLE—The Bible is the book, of all others, to be read at all ages, and in all conditions of human life; not to be read once or twice or thrice through, and then to be laid aside but to be read in small portions of one or two chapters, every day, and never to be intermitted, unless by some overruling necessity...attentive and repeated reading of the Bible, in small portions every day, leads the mind to habitual meditation upon subjects of the highest interest to the welfare of the individual in this world...It furnishes rules of conduct for our conduct towards others in our social relations... If ever you tire of them in seeking for a rule of faith and a standard of morals, search them as records of history... It is a book which neither the most ignorant and weakest, nor the most learned and intelligent mind can read without improvement." I remain your friend and fellow-student for life, J. Q. ADAMS.
December 2
"When I do good, I feel good, when I do bad, I feel bad, and that is my religion."
Abraham Lincoln, 16th President, 1861-1865
Abraham Lincoln, 16th President, 1861-1865
December 1- Religion, The Good Citizen
"All forms of religion have united for the first time to diffuse charity and piety, because for the first time in the history nations, all have been totally untrammeled and absolutely free."
Martin Van Buren, 8th President, 1837-1841-from Van Buren's second State of the Union Address, December 3, 1838-The address is largely congratulatory. "...The Constitution devised by our forefathers as the framework and bond of that system, then untried, has become a settled form of government; not only preserving and protecting the great principles upon which it was rounded, but wonderfully promoting individual happiness and private interests...It was reserved for the American Union to test the advantages of a government entirely dependent on the continual exercise of the popular will, and our experience has shown that it is as beneficent in practice as it is just in theory...the right of suffrage, has increased the direct influence of the mass of the community, given greater freedom to individual exertion, and restricted more and more the powers of Government; yet the intelligence, prudence, and patriotism of the people have kept pace with this augmented responsibility. In no country has education been so widely diffused. Domestic peace has nowhere so largely reigned... All forms of religion have united for the first time to diffuse charity and piety, because for the first time in the history of nations all have been totally untrammeled and absolutely free. The deepest recesses of the wilderness have been penetrated; yet instead of the rudeness in the social condition consequent upon such adventures elsewhere, numerous communities have sprung up..." Despite the tone, the young United States still faced border conflicts with Great Britain on the Canadian border, with Russia in the Pacific Northwest, and Mexico in the Southwest. Internally, there existed a large banking crisis and a massive forced migration of Native Americans from the Southeast to west of the Mississippi River.
Martin Van Buren, 8th President, 1837-1841-from Van Buren's second State of the Union Address, December 3, 1838-The address is largely congratulatory. "...The Constitution devised by our forefathers as the framework and bond of that system, then untried, has become a settled form of government; not only preserving and protecting the great principles upon which it was rounded, but wonderfully promoting individual happiness and private interests...It was reserved for the American Union to test the advantages of a government entirely dependent on the continual exercise of the popular will, and our experience has shown that it is as beneficent in practice as it is just in theory...the right of suffrage, has increased the direct influence of the mass of the community, given greater freedom to individual exertion, and restricted more and more the powers of Government; yet the intelligence, prudence, and patriotism of the people have kept pace with this augmented responsibility. In no country has education been so widely diffused. Domestic peace has nowhere so largely reigned... All forms of religion have united for the first time to diffuse charity and piety, because for the first time in the history of nations all have been totally untrammeled and absolutely free. The deepest recesses of the wilderness have been penetrated; yet instead of the rudeness in the social condition consequent upon such adventures elsewhere, numerous communities have sprung up..." Despite the tone, the young United States still faced border conflicts with Great Britain on the Canadian border, with Russia in the Pacific Northwest, and Mexico in the Southwest. Internally, there existed a large banking crisis and a massive forced migration of Native Americans from the Southeast to west of the Mississippi River.
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
November 30
"When even one American who has done nothing wrong-is forced by fear to shut his mind and close his mouth-then all Americans are in peril."
Harry S. Truman, 33rd President, 1945-1953
Harry S. Truman, 33rd President, 1945-1953
November 29
"Of the liberty of conscience in matters of religious faith, of speech and of the press, of trial by jury, to keep and bear arms...If these rights are well defined and secured against encroachment, it is impossible that government should ever degenerate into tyranny."
James Monroe, 5th President, 1817-1825
James Monroe, 5th President, 1817-1825
November 28
"The purpose of separation of church and state is to keep forever from these shores the ceaseless strife that has soaked the soil of Europe with blood for centuries."
James Madison, 4th President, 1809-1817
James Madison, 4th President, 1809-1817
November 27
Say nothing of my Religion. It is known to God and myself alone. Its evidence before the world is to be sought in my life: if it has been honest and dutiful to society, the religion which has regulated it cannot be a bad one."
Thomas Jefferson, 3rd President, 1801-1809- from a letter to John Adams, January, 11, 1817.-Jefferson and Adams had been friends before and during the Revolution but became political rivals in the formation of the new Republic, as Adams was elected to be the second President after Washington, and Jefferson defeated Adams and was elected the third President. Jefferson had retired from politics in 1809 after his Presidency, which he deemed to be "splendid misery." Jefferson and Adams renewed their friendship and generated volumes of letters to each other until their deaths; both on July 4, 1826, 50 years after the signing of the Declaration of Independence. They wrote on various and numerous subjects; here religion. Jefferson's biographer had asked if he had had a change in religious beliefs.Jefferson comments..."The result of your fifty or sixty years of religious reading, in the four words, “Be just and good,” is that in which all our inquiries must end; as the riddles of all the priesthoods end in four more, “ubi panis, ibi deus.” What all agree in, is probably right. What no two agree in, most probably wrong...Now this supposed that they knew what had been my religion before, taking for it the word of their priests, whom I certainly never made the confidants of my creed. My answer was “say nothing of my religion. It is known to my God and myself alone. Its evidence before the world is to be sought in my life; if that has been honest and dutiful to society, the religion which has regulated it cannot be a bad one.” Affectionately adieu. "The Works of Thomas Jefferson, Federal Edition (New York and London, G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 1904-5). Vol. 12."
Thomas Jefferson, 3rd President, 1801-1809- from a letter to John Adams, January, 11, 1817.-Jefferson and Adams had been friends before and during the Revolution but became political rivals in the formation of the new Republic, as Adams was elected to be the second President after Washington, and Jefferson defeated Adams and was elected the third President. Jefferson had retired from politics in 1809 after his Presidency, which he deemed to be "splendid misery." Jefferson and Adams renewed their friendship and generated volumes of letters to each other until their deaths; both on July 4, 1826, 50 years after the signing of the Declaration of Independence. They wrote on various and numerous subjects; here religion. Jefferson's biographer had asked if he had had a change in religious beliefs.Jefferson comments..."The result of your fifty or sixty years of religious reading, in the four words, “Be just and good,” is that in which all our inquiries must end; as the riddles of all the priesthoods end in four more, “ubi panis, ibi deus.” What all agree in, is probably right. What no two agree in, most probably wrong...Now this supposed that they knew what had been my religion before, taking for it the word of their priests, whom I certainly never made the confidants of my creed. My answer was “say nothing of my religion. It is known to my God and myself alone. Its evidence before the world is to be sought in my life; if that has been honest and dutiful to society, the religion which has regulated it cannot be a bad one.” Affectionately adieu. "The Works of Thomas Jefferson, Federal Edition (New York and London, G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 1904-5). Vol. 12."
November 26
"If we ever forget that we are One Nation under God, then we will be a nation gone under."
Ronald Reagan, 40th President, 1891-1989-Remarks at an Ecumenical Prayer Breakfast in Dallas, Texas, August 23, 1984"...I believe that George Washington knew the City of Man cannot survive without the City of God, that the Visible City will perish without the Invisible City. "Religion played not only a strong role in our national life; it played a positive role. The abolitionist movement was at heart a moral and religious movement; so was the modern civil rights struggle. And throughout this time, the state was tolerant of religious belief, expression, and practice. Society, too, was tolerant. "But in the 1960's this began to change. We began to make great steps toward secularizing our nation and removing religion from its honored place..."Today there are those who are fighting to make sure voluntary prayer is not returned to the classrooms. And the frustrating thing for the great majority of Americans who support and understand the special importance of religion in the national life -- the frustrating thing is that those who are attacking religion claim they are doing it in the name of tolerance, freedom, and openmindedness. Question: Isn't the real truth that they are intolerant of religion? They refuse to tolerate its importance in our lives...Without God, there is no virtue, because there's no prompting of the conscience. Without God, we're mired in the material, that flat world that tells us only what the senses perceive. Without God, there is a coarsening of the society. And without God, democracy will not and cannot long endure. If we ever forget that we're one nation under God, then we will be a nation gone under."
Ronald Reagan, 40th President, 1891-1989-Remarks at an Ecumenical Prayer Breakfast in Dallas, Texas, August 23, 1984"...I believe that George Washington knew the City of Man cannot survive without the City of God, that the Visible City will perish without the Invisible City. "Religion played not only a strong role in our national life; it played a positive role. The abolitionist movement was at heart a moral and religious movement; so was the modern civil rights struggle. And throughout this time, the state was tolerant of religious belief, expression, and practice. Society, too, was tolerant. "But in the 1960's this began to change. We began to make great steps toward secularizing our nation and removing religion from its honored place..."Today there are those who are fighting to make sure voluntary prayer is not returned to the classrooms. And the frustrating thing for the great majority of Americans who support and understand the special importance of religion in the national life -- the frustrating thing is that those who are attacking religion claim they are doing it in the name of tolerance, freedom, and openmindedness. Question: Isn't the real truth that they are intolerant of religion? They refuse to tolerate its importance in our lives...Without God, there is no virtue, because there's no prompting of the conscience. Without God, we're mired in the material, that flat world that tells us only what the senses perceive. Without God, there is a coarsening of the society. And without God, democracy will not and cannot long endure. If we ever forget that we're one nation under God, then we will be a nation gone under."
November 25
"He who loves the workman and his work, and does what he can to preserve and improve it, shall be accepted of Him.'
John Adams, 2nd President, 1797-1801- from a letter to Thomas Jefferson, June 18, 1812. Adams had apparently inquired about the Indians (Native Americans) and the theories of their origins and religious practices-Jefferson states the theories of two or three European historians. Adams replies:"...The watch-maker has in his head an idea of the system of a watch, before he makes it. The mechanician of the universe had a complete idea of the universe before he made it, and this idea, this logos, was almighty, or at least powerful enough to produce the world; ... I am weary of philosophers, theologians, politicians, and historians. They are immense masses of absurdities, vices, and lies. Montesquieu had sense enough to say in jest, that all our knowledge might be comprehended in twelve pages in duodecimo; and I believe him in earnest. I could express my faith in shorter terms. He who loves the workman and his work, and does what he can to preserve and improve it, shall be accepted of him."The Works of John Adams, Second President of the United States: with a Life of the Author, Notes and Illustrations, by his Grandson Charles Francis Adams (Boston: Little, Brown and Co., 1856). 10 volumes. Vol. 10.""http://oll.libertyfund.org/"
John Adams, 2nd President, 1797-1801- from a letter to Thomas Jefferson, June 18, 1812. Adams had apparently inquired about the Indians (Native Americans) and the theories of their origins and religious practices-Jefferson states the theories of two or three European historians. Adams replies:"...The watch-maker has in his head an idea of the system of a watch, before he makes it. The mechanician of the universe had a complete idea of the universe before he made it, and this idea, this logos, was almighty, or at least powerful enough to produce the world; ... I am weary of philosophers, theologians, politicians, and historians. They are immense masses of absurdities, vices, and lies. Montesquieu had sense enough to say in jest, that all our knowledge might be comprehended in twelve pages in duodecimo; and I believe him in earnest. I could express my faith in shorter terms. He who loves the workman and his work, and does what he can to preserve and improve it, shall be accepted of him."The Works of John Adams, Second President of the United States: with a Life of the Author, Notes and Illustrations, by his Grandson Charles Francis Adams (Boston: Little, Brown and Co., 1856). 10 volumes. Vol. 10.""http://oll.libertyfund.org/"
November 24
"Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, Religion and Morality are indespensible supports...Can it be that Providence has not connected the permanent felicity of a Nation with its virtue?"
George Washington, 1st President, 1789-1797
George Washington, 1st President, 1789-1797
November 23, 1804, Birthdate of Franklin Pierce
"You have summoned me in my weakness; you must sustain me by your strength.
14th President, 1853-1857-Pierce was a cohort and fellow student at Bowdoin College along with writers, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and Nathaniel Hawthorne. Only two months earlier, in January, 1853, the Pierce's last surviving son had died in a railroad accident. He had been nominated on the 49th ballot as a northerner at the Democratic Party convention.-from his Inaugural Address, Friday, March 4, 1853"... I repair to the post assigned me not as to one sought, but in obedience to the unsolicited expression of your will, answerable only for a fearless, faithful, and diligent exercise of my best powers...You have summoned me in my weakness; you must sustain me by your strength... It is no paradox to say that although comparatively weak the new-born nation was intrinsically strong. Inconsiderable in population and apparent resources, it was upheld by a broad and intelligent comprehension of rights and an all-pervading purpose to maintain them, stronger than armaments...With the Union my best and dearest hopes are entwined... I hold that the laws of 1850, commonly called the "compromise measures," are strictly constitutional and to be unhesitatingly carried into effect...within reach of the tomb of Washington, with all the cherished memories of the past gathering around me like so many eloquent voices of exhortation from heaven, I can express no better hope for my country than that the kind Providence which smiled upon our fathers may enable their children to preserve the blessings they have inherited."
14th President, 1853-1857-Pierce was a cohort and fellow student at Bowdoin College along with writers, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and Nathaniel Hawthorne. Only two months earlier, in January, 1853, the Pierce's last surviving son had died in a railroad accident. He had been nominated on the 49th ballot as a northerner at the Democratic Party convention.-from his Inaugural Address, Friday, March 4, 1853"... I repair to the post assigned me not as to one sought, but in obedience to the unsolicited expression of your will, answerable only for a fearless, faithful, and diligent exercise of my best powers...You have summoned me in my weakness; you must sustain me by your strength... It is no paradox to say that although comparatively weak the new-born nation was intrinsically strong. Inconsiderable in population and apparent resources, it was upheld by a broad and intelligent comprehension of rights and an all-pervading purpose to maintain them, stronger than armaments...With the Union my best and dearest hopes are entwined... I hold that the laws of 1850, commonly called the "compromise measures," are strictly constitutional and to be unhesitatingly carried into effect...within reach of the tomb of Washington, with all the cherished memories of the past gathering around me like so many eloquent voices of exhortation from heaven, I can express no better hope for my country than that the kind Providence which smiled upon our fathers may enable their children to preserve the blessings they have inherited."
Thursday, November 24, 2011
November 22
"All people yearn for certain things: the ability to speak your mind...confidence in the rule of law and the equal administration of justice, government that doesn't steal from the people. These are not just American ideas. They are human rights. And that is why we will support them everywhere."
Barack Obama, 44th President, 2009-
Barack Obama, 44th President, 2009-
November 21
"I tell the American people solemnly that the United States will never survive as a happy and fertile basis of liberty surrounded by a cruel desert of dictatorship."
Franklin D. Roosevelt, 32nd President, 1933-1945
Franklin D. Roosevelt, 32nd President, 1933-1945
November 20
"Force is all conquering but its victories are short lived."
Abraham Lincoln, 16th President, 1861-1865- attributed to Lincoln. This quote is not found in any of Lincoln's speeches or writings. However, it seems to coincide with much of what he did say, and agreed with what other great thinkers and writers have said. Emerson wrote, "The god of victory is said to be one handed, but Peace gives victory to both sides."(Journals, 1867). Gandhi, years later stated, "Victory attained by violence is tantamount to defeat, for it is temporary." (Satyagraha Leaflet #13, May, 03, 1919) Lincoln does not wish to initiate the conflict which grew into the Civil War. The conflict already existed when he took office. He goal was to maintain the union and the Constitution. "... In your hands, my dissatisfied fellow-countrymen, and not in mine, is the momentous issue of civil war. The Government will not assail you. You can have no conflict without being yourselves the aggressors. You have no oath registered in heaven to destroy the Government, while I shall have the most solemn one to "preserve, protect, and defend it." (First Inaugural Address, March 4, 1861.) In his second Inaugural Address, he states, "Both parties deprecated war; but one of them would make war rather than let the nation survive; and the other would accept war rather than let it perish. And the war came." He feels no need for revenge but wished to bind the nation back together."...With malice toward none; with charity for all; with firmness in the right, as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in; to bind up the nation's wounds; to care for him who shall have borne the battle, and for his widow, and his orphan -- to achieve and cherish a lasting peace among ourselves and with the world. (Second Inaugural Address, March 4, 1865.) Lincoln was assassinated and died just over a month later on April 15, 1865.
Abraham Lincoln, 16th President, 1861-1865- attributed to Lincoln. This quote is not found in any of Lincoln's speeches or writings. However, it seems to coincide with much of what he did say, and agreed with what other great thinkers and writers have said. Emerson wrote, "The god of victory is said to be one handed, but Peace gives victory to both sides."(Journals, 1867). Gandhi, years later stated, "Victory attained by violence is tantamount to defeat, for it is temporary." (Satyagraha Leaflet #13, May, 03, 1919) Lincoln does not wish to initiate the conflict which grew into the Civil War. The conflict already existed when he took office. He goal was to maintain the union and the Constitution. "... In your hands, my dissatisfied fellow-countrymen, and not in mine, is the momentous issue of civil war. The Government will not assail you. You can have no conflict without being yourselves the aggressors. You have no oath registered in heaven to destroy the Government, while I shall have the most solemn one to "preserve, protect, and defend it." (First Inaugural Address, March 4, 1861.) In his second Inaugural Address, he states, "Both parties deprecated war; but one of them would make war rather than let the nation survive; and the other would accept war rather than let it perish. And the war came." He feels no need for revenge but wished to bind the nation back together."...With malice toward none; with charity for all; with firmness in the right, as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in; to bind up the nation's wounds; to care for him who shall have borne the battle, and for his widow, and his orphan -- to achieve and cherish a lasting peace among ourselves and with the world. (Second Inaugural Address, March 4, 1865.) Lincoln was assassinated and died just over a month later on April 15, 1865.
November 19, 1831- Birthdate of James A. Garfield
"Be fit for more than the thing you are now doing. Let everyone know you have a reserve in yourself....If you are not too large for the place you occupy, you are too small for it."
20th President, 1881- from Elements of Success, Address before the students of the Spenceria Business College, Washington, D.C., June 29, 1869."...I have consented to address you this evening.. because among these boys are the great men of the future,- the heroes of the next generation, the philosophers, the statesmen, the philanthropists, the great reformers and moulders of the next age...to a young man, who has in himself the magnificent possibilities of life, it is not fitting the he should be permanently commanded: he should be a commander. You must not continue to be the employed: you must be an employer... In order to have any success in life, or any worthy success, you must resolve to carry into your work a fullness of knowledge,-not merely a sufficiency, but more than a sufficiency. In this respect, follow the rule of the machinists. If they want a machine to do the work of six horses, the give it nine-horse power. To carry on the business of life, you must have surplus power. Be fit for more than the thing you are now doing. Let everyone know that you have a a reserve in yourself,-that you have more power than you are now using. If you are not too large for the place you occupy, you are too small for it..."
20th President, 1881- from Elements of Success, Address before the students of the Spenceria Business College, Washington, D.C., June 29, 1869."...I have consented to address you this evening.. because among these boys are the great men of the future,- the heroes of the next generation, the philosophers, the statesmen, the philanthropists, the great reformers and moulders of the next age...to a young man, who has in himself the magnificent possibilities of life, it is not fitting the he should be permanently commanded: he should be a commander. You must not continue to be the employed: you must be an employer... In order to have any success in life, or any worthy success, you must resolve to carry into your work a fullness of knowledge,-not merely a sufficiency, but more than a sufficiency. In this respect, follow the rule of the machinists. If they want a machine to do the work of six horses, the give it nine-horse power. To carry on the business of life, you must have surplus power. Be fit for more than the thing you are now doing. Let everyone know that you have a a reserve in yourself,-that you have more power than you are now using. If you are not too large for the place you occupy, you are too small for it..."
November 18
"We need Hawaii just as much and a good deal more than we did California. It is Manifest Destiny."
William McKinley, 25th President, 1897-1901- The United States was on a "roll" or "hot streak" as far as international interventions under McKinley. In the short Spanish- American War (Remember the Maine), the U.S. acquired Cuba, Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippine Islands. The military also intervened in Nicaragua and in China's Boxer Rebellion. In 1894, the Republic of Hawaii was founded after a rebellion against the Royal government of Queen Liliuokalani. The so-called rebellion was led by U.S. business interests and the military. As a result, Sanford P. Dole (Dole Pineapple), who was Hawaiian born but with strong financial and family ties to the U.S., was named governor of the provisional republic. There were several attempts to restore the Queen to power and she, herself, was tried and convicted for treason, but was eventually freed. Hawaii was annexed as a territory in 1898. McKinley supported the annexation, believing to do nothing would invite more royalist counter-revolutions or a Japanese takeover.
William McKinley, 25th President, 1897-1901- The United States was on a "roll" or "hot streak" as far as international interventions under McKinley. In the short Spanish- American War (Remember the Maine), the U.S. acquired Cuba, Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippine Islands. The military also intervened in Nicaragua and in China's Boxer Rebellion. In 1894, the Republic of Hawaii was founded after a rebellion against the Royal government of Queen Liliuokalani. The so-called rebellion was led by U.S. business interests and the military. As a result, Sanford P. Dole (Dole Pineapple), who was Hawaiian born but with strong financial and family ties to the U.S., was named governor of the provisional republic. There were several attempts to restore the Queen to power and she, herself, was tried and convicted for treason, but was eventually freed. Hawaii was annexed as a territory in 1898. McKinley supported the annexation, believing to do nothing would invite more royalist counter-revolutions or a Japanese takeover.
November 17
"Let me assure my countrymen of the southern states that it is my earnest desire to regard and promote the interests of the white and colored people both and equally...to the end that we many have not merely a united North or a united South, but a united country.
Rutherford B. Hayes, 19th President, 1877-1881- In one of the most controversial elections of its time, neither Northern Republican candidate, Hayes, nor Southern Democratic candidate, Samuel Tilden gained enough electoral votes to be elected. A congressional committee found in favor of of Hayes with much "back room" deal making, one of which was the lessening of northern intervention in the southern states... from his Inaugural Address, Monday, March 5, 1877- ...The question we have to consider for the immediate welfare of those States of the Union is the question of government or no government; of social order and all the peaceful industries and the happiness that belongs to it, or a return to barbarism...That it(Emancipation)was a wise, just, and providential act, fraught with good for all concerned, is not generally conceded throughout the country... The evils which afflict the Southern States can only be removed or remedied by the united and harmonious efforts of both races, actuated by motives of mutual sympathy and regard; and while in duty bound and fully determined to protect the rights of all by every constitutional means at the disposal of my Administration, I am sincerely anxious to use every legitimate influence in favor of honest and efficient local self-government...
Rutherford B. Hayes, 19th President, 1877-1881- In one of the most controversial elections of its time, neither Northern Republican candidate, Hayes, nor Southern Democratic candidate, Samuel Tilden gained enough electoral votes to be elected. A congressional committee found in favor of of Hayes with much "back room" deal making, one of which was the lessening of northern intervention in the southern states... from his Inaugural Address, Monday, March 5, 1877- ...The question we have to consider for the immediate welfare of those States of the Union is the question of government or no government; of social order and all the peaceful industries and the happiness that belongs to it, or a return to barbarism...That it(Emancipation)was a wise, just, and providential act, fraught with good for all concerned, is not generally conceded throughout the country... The evils which afflict the Southern States can only be removed or remedied by the united and harmonious efforts of both races, actuated by motives of mutual sympathy and regard; and while in duty bound and fully determined to protect the rights of all by every constitutional means at the disposal of my Administration, I am sincerely anxious to use every legitimate influence in favor of honest and efficient local self-government...
November 16
"America will never run...And we will always be grateful that liberty has found such a brave defender."
George W. Bush, 43rd President, 2001-2009
George W. Bush, 43rd President, 2001-2009
November 15
"We cannot expect that all nations will adopt like systems, for conformity is the jailer of freedom and the enemy of growth. "
John F. Kennedy, 35th President, 1961-1963
John F. Kennedy, 35th President, 1961-1963
November 14
"Our purpose in Vietnam is to prevent the success of aggression. It is not conquest, it is not empire, it is not foreign bases, it is not domination. It is, simply put, just to prevent the forceful conquest of South Vietnam by North Vietnam."
Lyndon B. Johnson, 36th President, 1963-1969
Lyndon B. Johnson, 36th President, 1963-1969
November 13
"We shall never be able to remove suspicion and fear as potential causes of war until communication is permitted to flow, free and open, across international boundaries."
Harry S. Truman, 33rd President, 1945-1953
Harry S. Truman, 33rd President, 1945-1953
November 12
"With malice toward none, with charity for all, with firmness in the right as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in...to care for him who shall have borne the battle...to do all which may achieve...a just and lasting peace among ourselves and with all nations."
Abraham Lincoln, 16th President, 1861-1865
Abraham Lincoln, 16th President, 1861-1865
November 11
"The world must be made safe for democracy. Its peace must be planted upon the tested foundations of political liberty."
Woodrow Wilson, 28th President, 1913-1921
Woodrow Wilson, 28th President, 1913-1921
November 10
"The world has nothing to fear from military ambition in our Government. While the Chief Magistrate and...Congress are elected for short terms...by those who must bear all the burdens and miseries of war, our Government can not be otherwise than pacific."
James K. Polk, 11th President, 1845-1849
James K. Polk, 11th President, 1845-1849
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
November 9
"History teaches us that wars begin when governments believe the price of aggression is cheap."
Ronald Reagan, 40th President, 1981-1989
Ronald Reagan, 40th President, 1981-1989
November 8
"There are good men and bad men of all nationalities, creeds, and colors; and if this world of ours is ever to become what we hope it may become, it must be by recognition the the man's heart and soul, worth and actions determine his standing."
Theodore Roosevelt, 26th President, 1901-1909
Theodore Roosevelt, 26th President, 1901-1909
November 7
"America does not go abroad in search of monsters to destroy. She is the well wisher to freedom and independence for all. She is the champion and vindicator only of her own."
John Quincy Adams, 6th President, 1825-1829
John Quincy Adams, 6th President, 1825-1829
November 6
"The American continents...are henceforth not to be considered as subjects for future colonization by any European powers."
James Monroe, 5th President, 1817-1825
James Monroe, 5th President, 1817-1825
Monday, November 7, 2011
November 5
"We admit of no government by divine right...The only legitimate right to govern is an express grant of power from the governed.'
William Henry Harrison, 9th President, 1841
William Henry Harrison, 9th President, 1841
November 4
"Tis our true policy to steer clear of permanent alliances with any portion of the foreign world. Why ...entangle our peace and prosperity in the toils of European ambition , rivalship, interest, humour, or caprice."
George Washington, 1st President, 1789-17897
George Washington, 1st President, 1789-17897
November 2-Birthdate of Warren Gamiel Harding, 1865
"Our most dangerous tendency is to expect too much of government, and at the same time for it to do too little.""
29th President, 1921-123
29th President, 1921-123
November 2 Birthdate of James Knox Polk, 1795
"There is more selfishness and less principle among members of Congress...that I had any conception of, before I became President of the United States."
11th President, 1845-1849
11th President, 1845-1849
November-International Relations/Thanksgiving
November 1
"Just as war is Freedom's cost, disagreement is Freedom's privilege."
Bill Clinton, 42nd President, 1993-2001
"Just as war is Freedom's cost, disagreement is Freedom's privilege."
Bill Clinton, 42nd President, 1993-2001
Saturday, October 29, 2011
October 31
"Let peace and prosperity be restored to the land. May God bless this people: may God save the Constitution."
Andrew Johnson, 17th President, 1865-1869. From a speech given to a special session of the Senate on March 22,1875. Ten years after the end of The Civil War, Reconstruction had attempted to bring the nation back together. However, the nation was still in turmoil, with among other issues, disputes in elections as Republicans accused Democrats of of unfair and violent election practices and Democrats accused the Republicans of corruption. In one instance, government troops were sent to Louisiana to attempt to restore order. In that state, two competing legislatures had been elected and each attempted to send their chosen Senator to Congress. A dispute ensued whether or not President Grant had the right to send government troops to solve state election issues. Johnson, who had been recently elected to the Senate, gave his speech opposing the Federal intervention, siting numerous examples from the Constitution. It was to be his last public speech, as he died on July 31, 1875. From The Senate, 1789-1989: Classic speeches, 1830-1993, Volume 3, edited by Wendy Wolff.
Andrew Johnson, 17th President, 1865-1869. From a speech given to a special session of the Senate on March 22,1875. Ten years after the end of The Civil War, Reconstruction had attempted to bring the nation back together. However, the nation was still in turmoil, with among other issues, disputes in elections as Republicans accused Democrats of of unfair and violent election practices and Democrats accused the Republicans of corruption. In one instance, government troops were sent to Louisiana to attempt to restore order. In that state, two competing legislatures had been elected and each attempted to send their chosen Senator to Congress. A dispute ensued whether or not President Grant had the right to send government troops to solve state election issues. Johnson, who had been recently elected to the Senate, gave his speech opposing the Federal intervention, siting numerous examples from the Constitution. It was to be his last public speech, as he died on July 31, 1875. From The Senate, 1789-1989: Classic speeches, 1830-1993, Volume 3, edited by Wendy Wolff.
October 30, Birthdate of John Adams, 1735
"I always consider the settlement of America with reverence and wonder, the opening of a grand scene and design in providence, for the illumination of the ignorant and the emancipation of the slavish part of mankind all over the earth."
2nd President, 1797-1801
2nd President, 1797-1801
October 29
"Liberty must be allowed to work out its natural results, and these will, ere long, astonish the world. "
James Buchanan, 15th President, 1857-1861
James Buchanan, 15th President, 1857-1861
October 28
"Forgive your enemies but never forget their names."
John F. Kennedy, 35th President, 1961-1963-attributed to Kennedy. Kennedy never wanted to make political friends so likewise he never really considered opponents to be enemies. One telling journal entry reads, "In politics you don't have friends-you have confederates." (Matthews, Chris; Jack Kennedy: Elusive Hero, Simon & Schuster, New York, New York, 2011, p. 79) Rather, he held on to his old friends from school and his World War II years. After the war, he worked for a time as a reporter and columnist for The Chicago Herald-American. He soon came to realize he wanted to influence policy rather than report on it. He had high ambitions and rose from being elected to Congress in 1946, to the Senate in 1953, and to the Presidency in 1961. Because of his ambitions and desire to be independent, Kennedy did not consider himself indebted to any one individual nor group despite their rank or experience, nor to his party, despite whatever help they may have given him. On the other hand, they might have considered him beholden to them. Thus, his enemies may have thought that he needed to ask them for forgiveness, rather than the other way around. When Kennedy was assassinated, there was much conjecture and speculation as to who might have actually been responsible. Fifty years later, conspiracy theorists have placed blame on many groups. Within the government, the CIA and its leaders were suspect. They were angry that he did not support the invasion of Cuba at The Bay of Pigs in 1961, nor follow their recommendations to bomb Cuba during the Russian Missile Crisis in 1962. Also, the FBI and J. Edgar Hoover may have motivated to eliminate Kennedy, whose powers he and his brother, Bobby, as Attorney General, sought to curtail. There is speculation that "The Mob" or organized crime leaders had a hand in the conspiracy. Kennedy's father, Joseph, a "businessman" had gained much of his fortune in the 1920's and 1930's. Allegedly he had his "friends" influence and rig elections around the country to help John get elected. Despite their "help", many bosses were prosecuted and imprisoned for interstate racketeering as Kennedy again oversaw his brother, Bobby, in his bid to lessen the influence of organized crime. Even Kennedy's Vice-President, Lyndon Johnson, of Texas, has been implicated. Supposedly, his motivation would have been his own desire to be President. Johnson, a career politician with a reputation for heavy handed power plays, had also aspired to the Presidency in 1960, but was picked for Vice-President to get the Southern vote, and then was marginalized and left out of decision or policy making processes. On November 22, 1963, Kennedy was shot and killed in Dallas, Texas. Charming and popular as Kennedy was, he was also a calculating politician who left many angry and "influential" people in his wake.
John F. Kennedy, 35th President, 1961-1963-attributed to Kennedy. Kennedy never wanted to make political friends so likewise he never really considered opponents to be enemies. One telling journal entry reads, "In politics you don't have friends-you have confederates." (Matthews, Chris; Jack Kennedy: Elusive Hero, Simon & Schuster, New York, New York, 2011, p. 79) Rather, he held on to his old friends from school and his World War II years. After the war, he worked for a time as a reporter and columnist for The Chicago Herald-American. He soon came to realize he wanted to influence policy rather than report on it. He had high ambitions and rose from being elected to Congress in 1946, to the Senate in 1953, and to the Presidency in 1961. Because of his ambitions and desire to be independent, Kennedy did not consider himself indebted to any one individual nor group despite their rank or experience, nor to his party, despite whatever help they may have given him. On the other hand, they might have considered him beholden to them. Thus, his enemies may have thought that he needed to ask them for forgiveness, rather than the other way around. When Kennedy was assassinated, there was much conjecture and speculation as to who might have actually been responsible. Fifty years later, conspiracy theorists have placed blame on many groups. Within the government, the CIA and its leaders were suspect. They were angry that he did not support the invasion of Cuba at The Bay of Pigs in 1961, nor follow their recommendations to bomb Cuba during the Russian Missile Crisis in 1962. Also, the FBI and J. Edgar Hoover may have motivated to eliminate Kennedy, whose powers he and his brother, Bobby, as Attorney General, sought to curtail. There is speculation that "The Mob" or organized crime leaders had a hand in the conspiracy. Kennedy's father, Joseph, a "businessman" had gained much of his fortune in the 1920's and 1930's. Allegedly he had his "friends" influence and rig elections around the country to help John get elected. Despite their "help", many bosses were prosecuted and imprisoned for interstate racketeering as Kennedy again oversaw his brother, Bobby, in his bid to lessen the influence of organized crime. Even Kennedy's Vice-President, Lyndon Johnson, of Texas, has been implicated. Supposedly, his motivation would have been his own desire to be President. Johnson, a career politician with a reputation for heavy handed power plays, had also aspired to the Presidency in 1960, but was picked for Vice-President to get the Southern vote, and then was marginalized and left out of decision or policy making processes. On November 22, 1963, Kennedy was shot and killed in Dallas, Texas. Charming and popular as Kennedy was, he was also a calculating politician who left many angry and "influential" people in his wake.
Friday, October 21, 2011
October 27
"Get action. Seize the moment. Man was never intended to become an oyster."
Theodore Roosevelt, 26th President, 1901-1909- attributed to Roosevelt in letters to his children. First quoted from a letter to J. A. Roosevelt (Roosevelt's uncle) written by Theodore's father, Theodore Roosevelt, Senior. (McCullough, David, "Mornings on Horseback", Simon and Schuster, New York, New York, 1981, p. 31) Although this phrase may not have been originally uttered by the future President, it certainly is a standard theme and motivating idea and a driving force in his life. Roosevelt was quite sickly as a young boy, nervous and afraid of many things, and suffered from severe asthma. When little Theodore would suffer an attack at night, his father would " take him in his arms and walk the floor with him for hours." (ibid, p. 36)The rest of the time, Roosevelt's father was an authority figure but also a great companion. He taught his children to ride horses and to climb trees. As they grew older he tried to include them in his own outside activities. Roosevelt's father hated idleness. From that point of view, the phrase and sentiment most likely arose: "Get action. Seize the moment. Man was not intended to become and oyster." Perhaps the phrase had some reference to the Roosevelt's summer home at Oyster Bay on Long Island. Oysters are similar to clams, but early in their life, they attach themselves to a safe spot and remain there their entire lives. Young Theodore became interested in, almost obsessed, with natural history and wild life. He began a collection of birds that he would capture and stuff them himself. He became a reader of books on poetry, science, and history would report on what he had read to anyone who would listen. However, he remained sickly until his father took him aside and told him that he had to build and take charge of his body. He began an exercise regimen and his father even hired boxing coaches and took him on summer hikes and camping expeditions. He started to "get action" and never stopped. Even long after his father passed away, he remained a strong guiding influence on Roosevelt. When Theodore left to go to college at Harvard, his father wrote to him, "Take care of your morals first, your health next, and, finally, your studies.'' (http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/americanexperience/features/transcript/tr-transcript/) Theodore was a boon companion to his children as well. He became President at the age of 42 and he and his second wife, Edith, brought their six children and the Roosevelt rambunctiousness to the White House. One child had been born to his previous wife, Alice, who had died as a result of complications from giving birth. The children had free run of the White House and were known to have dropped water balloons on the guards and given elevator rides to their shetland pony, Algonquin. Their menagerie also included six dogs, snakes, a macaw parrot, cats, rats, guinea pigs, and a flying squirrel. Roosevelt also took great pleasure in telling ghost and cowboy stories and in leading the children and guests on hikes and swims at their Sagamore Hill summer home.
Theodore Roosevelt, 26th President, 1901-1909- attributed to Roosevelt in letters to his children. First quoted from a letter to J. A. Roosevelt (Roosevelt's uncle) written by Theodore's father, Theodore Roosevelt, Senior. (McCullough, David, "Mornings on Horseback", Simon and Schuster, New York, New York, 1981, p. 31) Although this phrase may not have been originally uttered by the future President, it certainly is a standard theme and motivating idea and a driving force in his life. Roosevelt was quite sickly as a young boy, nervous and afraid of many things, and suffered from severe asthma. When little Theodore would suffer an attack at night, his father would " take him in his arms and walk the floor with him for hours." (ibid, p. 36)The rest of the time, Roosevelt's father was an authority figure but also a great companion. He taught his children to ride horses and to climb trees. As they grew older he tried to include them in his own outside activities. Roosevelt's father hated idleness. From that point of view, the phrase and sentiment most likely arose: "Get action. Seize the moment. Man was not intended to become and oyster." Perhaps the phrase had some reference to the Roosevelt's summer home at Oyster Bay on Long Island. Oysters are similar to clams, but early in their life, they attach themselves to a safe spot and remain there their entire lives. Young Theodore became interested in, almost obsessed, with natural history and wild life. He began a collection of birds that he would capture and stuff them himself. He became a reader of books on poetry, science, and history would report on what he had read to anyone who would listen. However, he remained sickly until his father took him aside and told him that he had to build and take charge of his body. He began an exercise regimen and his father even hired boxing coaches and took him on summer hikes and camping expeditions. He started to "get action" and never stopped. Even long after his father passed away, he remained a strong guiding influence on Roosevelt. When Theodore left to go to college at Harvard, his father wrote to him, "Take care of your morals first, your health next, and, finally, your studies.'' (http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/americanexperience/features/transcript/tr-transcript/) Theodore was a boon companion to his children as well. He became President at the age of 42 and he and his second wife, Edith, brought their six children and the Roosevelt rambunctiousness to the White House. One child had been born to his previous wife, Alice, who had died as a result of complications from giving birth. The children had free run of the White House and were known to have dropped water balloons on the guards and given elevator rides to their shetland pony, Algonquin. Their menagerie also included six dogs, snakes, a macaw parrot, cats, rats, guinea pigs, and a flying squirrel. Roosevelt also took great pleasure in telling ghost and cowboy stories and in leading the children and guests on hikes and swims at their Sagamore Hill summer home.
October 26
"A conservative is a man with two perfectly good legs who, however, has never learned to walk."
Franklin D. Roosevelt, 32nd President, 1933-1945- Radio Address to the New York Herald Tribune Forum, October 26, 1939. The social media of 1939 was radio and The New York Herald Forum was a program that drew statesmen from around the world to discuss current problems. Roosevelt, a master of "social media" in his time, of course, took the opportunity to participate. 1939 had been a very eventful and historic year in the United States and around the world. Germany had invaded Poland in March of that year, Great Britain had declared war on Germany, in India Gandhi had begun a fast as India continued its quest to gain independence from Great Britain, and Japan was at war with China. In the United States, two now classic movies would be released: "The Wizard of Oz" in August and "Gone with the Wind" in December. Baseball great, Lou Gerhig was forced to end his baseball career with the New York Yankees due to the disease that now bears his name and Ted Williams began his career with the Boston Red Sox. Frank Sinatra began his recording career and Kate Smith belted out her rendition of "God Bless America". As Roosevelt gave his address on October 26, Germany had recently plundered Nazi occupied areas on October 19. Two weeks prior to his address, he had met with Albert Einstein and had been briefed on the possibility of developing the atom bomb. In the radio forum, on October 26, Roosevelt speaks of the speed and pace of progress and democracy. He states that some governments and individuals seek to move too quickly and arbitrarily, causing conflict and war. Others wish to move too slowly or not at all, with the same results. He gives his definitions of Radicals, Conservatives, Reactionaries, and Liberals: "A Radical is a man with both feet firmly planted— in the air"; "A Conservative is a man with two perfectly good legs who, however, has never learned to walk forward"; "A Reactionary is a somnambulist walking backwards" and "A Liberal is a man who uses his legs and his hands at the behest-at the command—of his head". Roosevelt states that those of the extreme right or left sharpen to the "argument" or discussion, but they should merely serve to make us realize the value of "the democratic middle course", where he states he plots a course "just a little bit left of center." He ends his address stating that the United States, in regards to the growing European and Asian conflicts, "is neutral and does not intend to get involved in war". As we know know, however, his stated policy of neutrality changed over the subsequent two years, as we increased our amount support to Great Britain, and the United States was eventually drawn to declare war after the bombing of Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941.
Franklin D. Roosevelt, 32nd President, 1933-1945- Radio Address to the New York Herald Tribune Forum, October 26, 1939. The social media of 1939 was radio and The New York Herald Forum was a program that drew statesmen from around the world to discuss current problems. Roosevelt, a master of "social media" in his time, of course, took the opportunity to participate. 1939 had been a very eventful and historic year in the United States and around the world. Germany had invaded Poland in March of that year, Great Britain had declared war on Germany, in India Gandhi had begun a fast as India continued its quest to gain independence from Great Britain, and Japan was at war with China. In the United States, two now classic movies would be released: "The Wizard of Oz" in August and "Gone with the Wind" in December. Baseball great, Lou Gerhig was forced to end his baseball career with the New York Yankees due to the disease that now bears his name and Ted Williams began his career with the Boston Red Sox. Frank Sinatra began his recording career and Kate Smith belted out her rendition of "God Bless America". As Roosevelt gave his address on October 26, Germany had recently plundered Nazi occupied areas on October 19. Two weeks prior to his address, he had met with Albert Einstein and had been briefed on the possibility of developing the atom bomb. In the radio forum, on October 26, Roosevelt speaks of the speed and pace of progress and democracy. He states that some governments and individuals seek to move too quickly and arbitrarily, causing conflict and war. Others wish to move too slowly or not at all, with the same results. He gives his definitions of Radicals, Conservatives, Reactionaries, and Liberals: "A Radical is a man with both feet firmly planted— in the air"; "A Conservative is a man with two perfectly good legs who, however, has never learned to walk forward"; "A Reactionary is a somnambulist walking backwards" and "A Liberal is a man who uses his legs and his hands at the behest-at the command—of his head". Roosevelt states that those of the extreme right or left sharpen to the "argument" or discussion, but they should merely serve to make us realize the value of "the democratic middle course", where he states he plots a course "just a little bit left of center." He ends his address stating that the United States, in regards to the growing European and Asian conflicts, "is neutral and does not intend to get involved in war". As we know know, however, his stated policy of neutrality changed over the subsequent two years, as we increased our amount support to Great Britain, and the United States was eventually drawn to declare war after the bombing of Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941.
October 25
"The truth is that all men having power ought to be mistrusted."
James Madison, 4th President, 1809-1817- from Madison's notes during the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia, July 11, 1787. The United States of America didn't just "appear" on July 4, 1776 with the Declaration of Independence. The war for independence was fought until October 19, 1781 when General Cornwallis surrendered at Yorktown, Virginia. The Treaty of Paris was subsequently signed on September 3, 1783, officially recognizing the United states as an independent country. Of course, we know George Washington was our first President, but he did not take office until 1789. What happened between those years of 1783 and 1789? The new nation started its existence guided by the Articles of Confederation, which created a nation of pre-existing states, rather than a government over individuals. (http://teachingamericanhistory.org/convention/intro/). The result was strong state and local government but a weak centralized government. In stepped Madison, along with other statesmen, including George Washington. The solution, concluded Madison, was to create an extended republic, in which a variety of opinions, passions, and interests would check and balance each other, supported by a governmental framework that endorsed a separation of powers between the branches of the general government. (http://teachingamericanhistory.org/convention/intro/). Thus, in February of 1787, the Confederation Congress endorsed the meeting of the Grand Convention “for the sole purpose of revising the articles of Confederation and reporting to Congress...(to)render the federal Constitution adequate to the exigencies of government and the preservation of the Union.” It is during these sessions of debate and discussion that Madison makes his quote. On that day, the discussion turned toward representation. Some believed that the majority should rule. Others held that men of wealth and education should have more say. They would be bound by duty, honor, and their oaths. If that were not enough, they should not represent the people. The discussion turned to who would be more trustworthy- those of the North, South, or the West. Here, Madison, ever the wit, gives his opinion: To reconcile the gentleman with himself, it must be imagined that he determined the human character by the points of the compass. Then on a more serious note: The truth was that all men having power ought to be distrusted to a certain degree...(it) had been mentioned where it was admitted that those who were possessed of the power in the original settlement, never admitted the new settlements to a due share of it. England was a still more striking example. The power there had long been in the hands of the boroughs, of the minority; who had opposed & defeated every reform which had been attempted.After much debate, disagreement, and controversy, the Constitution was adopted. The United States would have a centralized federal government and individuals and minorities would have rights and protection under the law; we would not be governed merely by majority rule.
James Madison, 4th President, 1809-1817- from Madison's notes during the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia, July 11, 1787. The United States of America didn't just "appear" on July 4, 1776 with the Declaration of Independence. The war for independence was fought until October 19, 1781 when General Cornwallis surrendered at Yorktown, Virginia. The Treaty of Paris was subsequently signed on September 3, 1783, officially recognizing the United states as an independent country. Of course, we know George Washington was our first President, but he did not take office until 1789. What happened between those years of 1783 and 1789? The new nation started its existence guided by the Articles of Confederation, which created a nation of pre-existing states, rather than a government over individuals. (http://teachingamericanhistory.org/convention/intro/). The result was strong state and local government but a weak centralized government. In stepped Madison, along with other statesmen, including George Washington. The solution, concluded Madison, was to create an extended republic, in which a variety of opinions, passions, and interests would check and balance each other, supported by a governmental framework that endorsed a separation of powers between the branches of the general government. (http://teachingamericanhistory.org/convention/intro/). Thus, in February of 1787, the Confederation Congress endorsed the meeting of the Grand Convention “for the sole purpose of revising the articles of Confederation and reporting to Congress...(to)render the federal Constitution adequate to the exigencies of government and the preservation of the Union.” It is during these sessions of debate and discussion that Madison makes his quote. On that day, the discussion turned toward representation. Some believed that the majority should rule. Others held that men of wealth and education should have more say. They would be bound by duty, honor, and their oaths. If that were not enough, they should not represent the people. The discussion turned to who would be more trustworthy- those of the North, South, or the West. Here, Madison, ever the wit, gives his opinion: To reconcile the gentleman with himself, it must be imagined that he determined the human character by the points of the compass. Then on a more serious note: The truth was that all men having power ought to be distrusted to a certain degree...(it) had been mentioned where it was admitted that those who were possessed of the power in the original settlement, never admitted the new settlements to a due share of it. England was a still more striking example. The power there had long been in the hands of the boroughs, of the minority; who had opposed & defeated every reform which had been attempted.After much debate, disagreement, and controversy, the Constitution was adopted. The United States would have a centralized federal government and individuals and minorities would have rights and protection under the law; we would not be governed merely by majority rule.
October 24
"The second office of this government is honorable and easy, the first is but splendid misery."
Thomas Jefferson, 3rd President, 1801-1809. From a letter written to Elbridge Gerry Philadelphia, May 13, 1797. After George Washington declined to run for a third term, Jefferson came in second place to John Adams for President in the election of 1796, which, at that time, made him Vice-President. Gerry, a fellow signer of the Declaration of Independence, was to become the namesake for the term, Gerrymandering, where voting boundaries were redrawn for the political advantage of one party over another. In 1793, Jefferson had returned to farming and his scientific pursuits after resigning as the first Secretary of State over disputes with Alexander Hamilton in regards to how much power the federal government should have over the states. Jefferson believed the states should have more power than the Federal government, while Hamilton supported a stronger Federal government, as did John Adams. To Jefferson, "federalists in high government posts were "timid men who prefer the calm of despotism to the boisterous sea of liberty." (From a letter written in April 1796 to the Italian intellectual Philip Mazzei.) Thus, although Adams and Jefferson were great allies in favoring independence from Great Britain, they came to hold differing views as to how the new nation should be governed. As a result, when Jefferson was elected as Vice President, he did not serve as much of an aide to Adams, but instead concentrated on his duties of presiding over the senate, the role prescribed in the constitution. He was content to let Adams contend with the domestic and international conflicts of the time. Adams would not be a popular President, who in an attempt to prevent rebellion, encouraged laws to be passed which limited freedom of speech and of the press. Adams also had to deal with renewed conflicts with Great Britain and became embroiled in bribery scandals with France, our supposed ally. As Adams' popularity began to diminish, Jefferson, who did not view himself as part of the administration, began to position himself to become the the third President. It is debatable as to whether or not Jefferson's Vice-Presidential conduct was honorable, but his political moves did propel him in 1801 to the office of the President and its splendid misery.
Thomas Jefferson, 3rd President, 1801-1809. From a letter written to Elbridge Gerry Philadelphia, May 13, 1797. After George Washington declined to run for a third term, Jefferson came in second place to John Adams for President in the election of 1796, which, at that time, made him Vice-President. Gerry, a fellow signer of the Declaration of Independence, was to become the namesake for the term, Gerrymandering, where voting boundaries were redrawn for the political advantage of one party over another. In 1793, Jefferson had returned to farming and his scientific pursuits after resigning as the first Secretary of State over disputes with Alexander Hamilton in regards to how much power the federal government should have over the states. Jefferson believed the states should have more power than the Federal government, while Hamilton supported a stronger Federal government, as did John Adams. To Jefferson, "federalists in high government posts were "timid men who prefer the calm of despotism to the boisterous sea of liberty." (From a letter written in April 1796 to the Italian intellectual Philip Mazzei.) Thus, although Adams and Jefferson were great allies in favoring independence from Great Britain, they came to hold differing views as to how the new nation should be governed. As a result, when Jefferson was elected as Vice President, he did not serve as much of an aide to Adams, but instead concentrated on his duties of presiding over the senate, the role prescribed in the constitution. He was content to let Adams contend with the domestic and international conflicts of the time. Adams would not be a popular President, who in an attempt to prevent rebellion, encouraged laws to be passed which limited freedom of speech and of the press. Adams also had to deal with renewed conflicts with Great Britain and became embroiled in bribery scandals with France, our supposed ally. As Adams' popularity began to diminish, Jefferson, who did not view himself as part of the administration, began to position himself to become the the third President. It is debatable as to whether or not Jefferson's Vice-Presidential conduct was honorable, but his political moves did propel him in 1801 to the office of the President and its splendid misery.
October 23
"I have wondered at times what the Ten Commandments would have looked like if Moses had run them through the U.S. Congress."
Ronald Reagan, 40th President, 1981-1989, -found in a collection of one liners on 3x5 cards compiled by Reagan. Whether or not anyone agreed or disagreed with Reagan's politics and policies, no one could deny Reagan's ability to speak and warm up a room. Although seen as warm and friendly, Reagan took very strong stands was willing to engage in debate and discussion to uphold his viewpoint. Most of his speeches contained humorous remarks, but with a point. He is quoted as having said, "Peace is not absence of conflict, it is the ability to handle conflict by peaceful means." (http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/r/ronaldreag169550.html#H4yBOqgmSKjuiWFg.99) His daughter, Patti Davis, has said that his humor was a lifelong coping mechanism, stating, "I think everything goes back to the fact of him being the child of an alcoholic. He protected himself against the unpredictability of his home, by developing this sort of coating of humor over everything." (http://www.cbsnews.com/news/the-reagan-wit/) Reagan did mention the Ten Commandments many times over his career. His remarks might be said to reveal a couple more parts of his personality and beliefs: In terms of government, Reagan believed there was too much of it. In one speech to the National Association of Manufactures on March 18, 1982, Reagan said, ". . . It is reported to us," ..."that the Lord's Prayer contains 57 words. Lincoln's Gettysburg Address has 266 words. The Ten Commandments are presented in just 297 words, and the Declaration of Independence has only 300 words." And then it goes on to say," . . . an Agriculture Department order setting the price of cabbage has 26,911 words." He also quotes economist William Freund, "...(who) has said that if the Ten Commandments had been published as government regulations and issued on stone, Moses would have come down from Mt. Sinai with a sprained back and without the tablets." (http://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/) On a personal level, we glimpse Reagan's character and value systems in the following remark: "...Government exists to ensure that liberty does not become license to prey on each other. We haven't been perfect in living up to that ideal, but we've come a long way...and yet if we simply adhere to the Ten Commandments that Moses brought down from the mountains—and he didn't just bring down 10 suggestions—and the admonition of the Man from Galilee to do unto others as you would have them do unto you, we could solve an awful lot of problems with a lot less government." (Remarks at Kansas State University at the Alfred M. Landon Lecture Series on Public Issues, September 9, 1982)(http://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/)
Ronald Reagan, 40th President, 1981-1989, -found in a collection of one liners on 3x5 cards compiled by Reagan. Whether or not anyone agreed or disagreed with Reagan's politics and policies, no one could deny Reagan's ability to speak and warm up a room. Although seen as warm and friendly, Reagan took very strong stands was willing to engage in debate and discussion to uphold his viewpoint. Most of his speeches contained humorous remarks, but with a point. He is quoted as having said, "Peace is not absence of conflict, it is the ability to handle conflict by peaceful means." (http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/r/ronaldreag169550.html#H4yBOqgmSKjuiWFg.99) His daughter, Patti Davis, has said that his humor was a lifelong coping mechanism, stating, "I think everything goes back to the fact of him being the child of an alcoholic. He protected himself against the unpredictability of his home, by developing this sort of coating of humor over everything." (http://www.cbsnews.com/news/the-reagan-wit/) Reagan did mention the Ten Commandments many times over his career. His remarks might be said to reveal a couple more parts of his personality and beliefs: In terms of government, Reagan believed there was too much of it. In one speech to the National Association of Manufactures on March 18, 1982, Reagan said, ". . . It is reported to us," ..."that the Lord's Prayer contains 57 words. Lincoln's Gettysburg Address has 266 words. The Ten Commandments are presented in just 297 words, and the Declaration of Independence has only 300 words." And then it goes on to say," . . . an Agriculture Department order setting the price of cabbage has 26,911 words." He also quotes economist William Freund, "...(who) has said that if the Ten Commandments had been published as government regulations and issued on stone, Moses would have come down from Mt. Sinai with a sprained back and without the tablets." (http://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/) On a personal level, we glimpse Reagan's character and value systems in the following remark: "...Government exists to ensure that liberty does not become license to prey on each other. We haven't been perfect in living up to that ideal, but we've come a long way...and yet if we simply adhere to the Ten Commandments that Moses brought down from the mountains—and he didn't just bring down 10 suggestions—and the admonition of the Man from Galilee to do unto others as you would have them do unto you, we could solve an awful lot of problems with a lot less government." (Remarks at Kansas State University at the Alfred M. Landon Lecture Series on Public Issues, September 9, 1982)(http://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/)
October 22
"I took the Canal Zone and let Congress debate; and while the debate goes on, the canal does also."
Theodore Roosevelt, 26th President, 1901-1909, From a speech given March 23, 1911 at the University of California at Berkeley, at its Greek Theater, for its 43rd Annual Charter Day Ceremonies. As a leader, Roosevelt staunchly and confidently advances and justifies his views in increasing American political and cultural influence in the twentieth century. Incidentally, fifty-one years later, in 1962, President John F. Kennedy would also speak at Berkeley's Charter Day ceremonies, at the inception of the cultural upheaval of the 1960's. In March of 1911, Roosevelt had already been out of office for two years. In 1902, the United States had "supported" a revolution in which Panama had broken from Columbia and declared independence. Negotiations began almost immediately with the United States taking control of the stalled canal design and construction. In 1911, the Panama Canal was not yet completed and would not be opened for another three years, a project spanning from 1904-1914. Roosevelt, in addressing those whom he calls "... you students, young men and women, our masters of the future...", gives a broad and sweeping view of the advancement of western civilization. He acknowledges some failures and shortcomings American civilization and states, "We are often self congratulatory", but states, "I would like every man to remember that no other nation gives a rap about what we say of ourselves. They care for nothing except what we do." He makes these remarks to the students and faculty so they should have "...a full and intense realization the seriousness of your work." He sees more western advancement and states, "... I believe that in the future, it is on the Pacific that the greatest crises in world history will be faced...". As the speech progresses, Roosevelt states in terms of modern accomplishments, the building and engineering of the Panama Canal is "the greatest feat of the kind that has ever been attempted by civilized mankind". He justifies the controversial taking of control of the canal zone, stating, "...If I had acted strictly according to precedent, I should have turned the whole matter over to Congress, in which case, the Congress would ably be debating it at this moment, and the canal would be fifty years in the future. Fortunately, the crisis came at a period when I could act unhampered. Accordingly I took the Isthmus, started the canal, and then left Congress-not to debate the canal, but to debate me. And in portions of the public press, the debate still goes on as to whether or not I had acted properly in taking the canal." He closes the subject by saying, "In the field of practical achievement, in statecraft, and in such material work of the Panama Canal, America has done its full part... I am proud of this." (http://www.theodore-roosevelt.com/images/research/txtspeeches/744.pdf) As Roosevelt rightly predicted, much conflict and advancement has swept across the Pacific in the past century.
Theodore Roosevelt, 26th President, 1901-1909, From a speech given March 23, 1911 at the University of California at Berkeley, at its Greek Theater, for its 43rd Annual Charter Day Ceremonies. As a leader, Roosevelt staunchly and confidently advances and justifies his views in increasing American political and cultural influence in the twentieth century. Incidentally, fifty-one years later, in 1962, President John F. Kennedy would also speak at Berkeley's Charter Day ceremonies, at the inception of the cultural upheaval of the 1960's. In March of 1911, Roosevelt had already been out of office for two years. In 1902, the United States had "supported" a revolution in which Panama had broken from Columbia and declared independence. Negotiations began almost immediately with the United States taking control of the stalled canal design and construction. In 1911, the Panama Canal was not yet completed and would not be opened for another three years, a project spanning from 1904-1914. Roosevelt, in addressing those whom he calls "... you students, young men and women, our masters of the future...", gives a broad and sweeping view of the advancement of western civilization. He acknowledges some failures and shortcomings American civilization and states, "We are often self congratulatory", but states, "I would like every man to remember that no other nation gives a rap about what we say of ourselves. They care for nothing except what we do." He makes these remarks to the students and faculty so they should have "...a full and intense realization the seriousness of your work." He sees more western advancement and states, "... I believe that in the future, it is on the Pacific that the greatest crises in world history will be faced...". As the speech progresses, Roosevelt states in terms of modern accomplishments, the building and engineering of the Panama Canal is "the greatest feat of the kind that has ever been attempted by civilized mankind". He justifies the controversial taking of control of the canal zone, stating, "...If I had acted strictly according to precedent, I should have turned the whole matter over to Congress, in which case, the Congress would ably be debating it at this moment, and the canal would be fifty years in the future. Fortunately, the crisis came at a period when I could act unhampered. Accordingly I took the Isthmus, started the canal, and then left Congress-not to debate the canal, but to debate me. And in portions of the public press, the debate still goes on as to whether or not I had acted properly in taking the canal." He closes the subject by saying, "In the field of practical achievement, in statecraft, and in such material work of the Panama Canal, America has done its full part... I am proud of this." (http://www.theodore-roosevelt.com/images/research/txtspeeches/744.pdf) As Roosevelt rightly predicted, much conflict and advancement has swept across the Pacific in the past century.
October 21
"There is nothing wrong with America that can't be cured with what is right about America."
Bill Clinton, 42nd President, 1993-2001, from his First Inaugural Address, January 20, 1993. Ambitious, educated, entitled, and enabled, Bill Clinton, presided over a great period of economic growth. From his teenage years, he found he was good at speech and debate and became active in student government. He was inspired by Martin Luther King and also wanted to follow in the footsteps of John F Kennedy, whom he met in the summer of 1963 as an Arkansas delegate of Boys Nation. Majoring in International Affairs at Georgetown University, he won a Rhodes scholarship to Oxford University in England, staying involved in government all the while. He graduated from Yale Law School where he met Hillary Rodham and they married in 1975. She provided much support as he rose through the political ranks of Arkansas, where he was elected governor. Through his success in Arkansas, he gained prominence in national politics, and with Hillary's steadfast support, won the Democratic nomination for President in 1992, despite allegations of improprieties with several women. As the first President of the "Baby Boomer" generation, Clinton called for renewal of America: "...Though our challenges are fearsome, so are our strengths. Americans have ever been a restless, questing, hopeful people. And we must bring to our task today the vision and will of those who came before us. From our Revolution to the Civil War, to the Great Depression, to the civil rights movement, our people have always mustered the determination to construct from these crises the pillars of our history...Well, my fellow Americans, this is our time. Let us embrace it. Our democracy must be not only the envy of the world but the engine of our own renewal. There is nothing wrong with America that cannot be cured by what is right with America. And so today we pledge an end to the era of deadlock and drift, and a new season of American renewal has begun...To renew America, we must be bold. We must do what no generation has had to do before. We must invest more in our own people, in their jobs, and in their future, and at the same time cut our massive debt. And we must do so in a world in which we must compete for every opportunity."
Bill Clinton, 42nd President, 1993-2001, from his First Inaugural Address, January 20, 1993. Ambitious, educated, entitled, and enabled, Bill Clinton, presided over a great period of economic growth. From his teenage years, he found he was good at speech and debate and became active in student government. He was inspired by Martin Luther King and also wanted to follow in the footsteps of John F Kennedy, whom he met in the summer of 1963 as an Arkansas delegate of Boys Nation. Majoring in International Affairs at Georgetown University, he won a Rhodes scholarship to Oxford University in England, staying involved in government all the while. He graduated from Yale Law School where he met Hillary Rodham and they married in 1975. She provided much support as he rose through the political ranks of Arkansas, where he was elected governor. Through his success in Arkansas, he gained prominence in national politics, and with Hillary's steadfast support, won the Democratic nomination for President in 1992, despite allegations of improprieties with several women. As the first President of the "Baby Boomer" generation, Clinton called for renewal of America: "...Though our challenges are fearsome, so are our strengths. Americans have ever been a restless, questing, hopeful people. And we must bring to our task today the vision and will of those who came before us. From our Revolution to the Civil War, to the Great Depression, to the civil rights movement, our people have always mustered the determination to construct from these crises the pillars of our history...Well, my fellow Americans, this is our time. Let us embrace it. Our democracy must be not only the envy of the world but the engine of our own renewal. There is nothing wrong with America that cannot be cured by what is right with America. And so today we pledge an end to the era of deadlock and drift, and a new season of American renewal has begun...To renew America, we must be bold. We must do what no generation has had to do before. We must invest more in our own people, in their jobs, and in their future, and at the same time cut our massive debt. And we must do so in a world in which we must compete for every opportunity."
October 20
"There are no problems we cannot solve together, and very few that we can solve by ourselves."
Lyndon B. Johnson, 36th President, 1963-1969- "from a news conference at the LBJ Ranch, Stonewall, Texas, on Saturday, November 28, 1964." This quote, uttered almost off-handedly by Johnson, has many levels of depth. Here he speaks on a Thanksgiving weekend from his Texas home, while taking a break from his duties in Washington, just a little over a year since the unfortunate assassination of President Kennedy. Taken by itself, it sounds like a reassuring statement for a still frazzled nation. On that level, he makes a very wise and home-spun statement that applies to almost any family, community, or national issue. However, in its political context, it seems to be more a back handed swipe directed towards our French ally, Charles de Gaulle. Twenty years after the end of World War II, de Gaulle seeks more autonomy from the Atlantic Alliance, also know as NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization), which was formed in 1949 against further threats from Russia and East Germany. In the tense times of the 1960's Cold War between Russia and Western Europe and the United States, France seeks to be put on equal footing with Great Britain and the United States and to increase its military and nuclear power independently. Johnson states, "...The ultimate essentials of the defense of the Atlantic community are the firmness and the mutual trust of the United States and Europe...The safety of the United States depends upon the freedom of Europe, and the freedom of Europe depends upon the strength and the will of the United States...The United States is committed to the increasing strength and the cooperation of the Atlantic community in every field of action--economic, commercial, and monetary. There are no problems which we cannot solve together, and there are very few which any of us can settle by himself...The United States sees no safe future for ourselves and none for any other Atlantic nation in a policy of narrow national self-interest. One of the great aspirations within the Atlantic community is the aspiration toward growing unity among the free peoples of Europe...". Eventually a new European Union was formed but in 1966, France did pull out of complete compliance of the NATO alliance in its desire to strengthen itself. France also withdrew from its interests in French-Indo China (Vietnam). Partially as a result, Johnson and the United States escalated our military involvement in South-East Asia. The unpopular conflict grew and as more and more American lives were lost, in 1968 Johnson decided not to seek re-election. On a cultural level, the 1960's became a time of social upheaval with war and protest, draft-dodging, James Bond, the Civil Rights movement, hippies, and "the Generation Gap." Rather than solving problems together, the fabric of the nation was ripped apart and ever so slowly is spun and re-spun into our nation and world today.
Lyndon B. Johnson, 36th President, 1963-1969- "from a news conference at the LBJ Ranch, Stonewall, Texas, on Saturday, November 28, 1964." This quote, uttered almost off-handedly by Johnson, has many levels of depth. Here he speaks on a Thanksgiving weekend from his Texas home, while taking a break from his duties in Washington, just a little over a year since the unfortunate assassination of President Kennedy. Taken by itself, it sounds like a reassuring statement for a still frazzled nation. On that level, he makes a very wise and home-spun statement that applies to almost any family, community, or national issue. However, in its political context, it seems to be more a back handed swipe directed towards our French ally, Charles de Gaulle. Twenty years after the end of World War II, de Gaulle seeks more autonomy from the Atlantic Alliance, also know as NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization), which was formed in 1949 against further threats from Russia and East Germany. In the tense times of the 1960's Cold War between Russia and Western Europe and the United States, France seeks to be put on equal footing with Great Britain and the United States and to increase its military and nuclear power independently. Johnson states, "...The ultimate essentials of the defense of the Atlantic community are the firmness and the mutual trust of the United States and Europe...The safety of the United States depends upon the freedom of Europe, and the freedom of Europe depends upon the strength and the will of the United States...The United States is committed to the increasing strength and the cooperation of the Atlantic community in every field of action--economic, commercial, and monetary. There are no problems which we cannot solve together, and there are very few which any of us can settle by himself...The United States sees no safe future for ourselves and none for any other Atlantic nation in a policy of narrow national self-interest. One of the great aspirations within the Atlantic community is the aspiration toward growing unity among the free peoples of Europe...". Eventually a new European Union was formed but in 1966, France did pull out of complete compliance of the NATO alliance in its desire to strengthen itself. France also withdrew from its interests in French-Indo China (Vietnam). Partially as a result, Johnson and the United States escalated our military involvement in South-East Asia. The unpopular conflict grew and as more and more American lives were lost, in 1968 Johnson decided not to seek re-election. On a cultural level, the 1960's became a time of social upheaval with war and protest, draft-dodging, James Bond, the Civil Rights movement, hippies, and "the Generation Gap." Rather than solving problems together, the fabric of the nation was ripped apart and ever so slowly is spun and re-spun into our nation and world today.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
October 19
"Don't expect to build up the weak by pulling down the strong."
Calvin Coolidge, 30th President, 1923-1929- from his "Have Faith in Massachusetts" Senate President Acceptance Speech, January 7, 1914. This speech, Coolidge's first as President of Massachusett's State Senate, is a tone setting "pep talk" for the legislature. At the time, Coolidge was forty two years of age and gaining prominence as he progressed from serving in the Massachusetts' House of Representatives to the Senate. Eventually he would be elected governor of Massachusetts and within ten year's time would be President of the United States. In his address, he thanks the Senate for the honor of being elected and recognized the obligations the came with the job. He goes on to state his philosophy of "law making", the chief function of any legislature..."Men do not make laws. They do but discover them. Laws must be justified by something more than the will of the majority. They must rest on the eternal foundation of righteousness." He sees our successful representative form of government, even with its human weaknesses, "as one which secures to the people more blessings than any other system ever produced." As he does throughout his life and career, he shows his regard and affection for Massachusetts and New England in general, and his home state of Vermont. In later years he would remark, "Vermont is a state I love. I could not look upon the peaks of Ascutney, Killington and Mansfield without being moved in a way that no other scene could move me. It was here that I first saw the light of day, here that I received my bride. Here my dead lie buried, pillowed among the everlasting hills. I love Vermont because of her hills and valleys, her scenery and invigorating climate, but most of all, I love her because of her indomitable people." (Address September 21, 1928) Likewise, he sets high standards for his fellow senators- "...Representative government must be preserved...The courts of Massachusetts are known and honored wherever men love justice. Let their glory suffer no diminution at our hands." He goes on to say, "Have faith in Massachusetts. In some unimportant detail some other States may surpass her, but in the general results, there is no place on earth where the people secure, in a larger measure, the blessings of organized government..." He makes his main point. "Do the day's work...If it be to protect the rights of the weak, whoever objects, do it. If it be to help a powerful corporation better to serve the people, whatever the opposition, do that...Expect to be called a demagogue, but don't be a demagogue...Don't expect to build up the weak by pulling down the strong... the final approval of the people is given not to demagogues, slavishly pandering to their selfishness, merchandising with the clamor of the hour, but to statesmen, ministering to their welfare, representing their deep, silent, abiding convictions." He concludes his remarks, saying, "To that, not to selfishness, let the laws of the Commonwealth appeal...Such is the foundation of liberty under the law. Such is the sublime revelation of man's relation to man, Democracy."
Calvin Coolidge, 30th President, 1923-1929- from his "Have Faith in Massachusetts" Senate President Acceptance Speech, January 7, 1914. This speech, Coolidge's first as President of Massachusett's State Senate, is a tone setting "pep talk" for the legislature. At the time, Coolidge was forty two years of age and gaining prominence as he progressed from serving in the Massachusetts' House of Representatives to the Senate. Eventually he would be elected governor of Massachusetts and within ten year's time would be President of the United States. In his address, he thanks the Senate for the honor of being elected and recognized the obligations the came with the job. He goes on to state his philosophy of "law making", the chief function of any legislature..."Men do not make laws. They do but discover them. Laws must be justified by something more than the will of the majority. They must rest on the eternal foundation of righteousness." He sees our successful representative form of government, even with its human weaknesses, "as one which secures to the people more blessings than any other system ever produced." As he does throughout his life and career, he shows his regard and affection for Massachusetts and New England in general, and his home state of Vermont. In later years he would remark, "Vermont is a state I love. I could not look upon the peaks of Ascutney, Killington and Mansfield without being moved in a way that no other scene could move me. It was here that I first saw the light of day, here that I received my bride. Here my dead lie buried, pillowed among the everlasting hills. I love Vermont because of her hills and valleys, her scenery and invigorating climate, but most of all, I love her because of her indomitable people." (Address September 21, 1928) Likewise, he sets high standards for his fellow senators- "...Representative government must be preserved...The courts of Massachusetts are known and honored wherever men love justice. Let their glory suffer no diminution at our hands." He goes on to say, "Have faith in Massachusetts. In some unimportant detail some other States may surpass her, but in the general results, there is no place on earth where the people secure, in a larger measure, the blessings of organized government..." He makes his main point. "Do the day's work...If it be to protect the rights of the weak, whoever objects, do it. If it be to help a powerful corporation better to serve the people, whatever the opposition, do that...Expect to be called a demagogue, but don't be a demagogue...Don't expect to build up the weak by pulling down the strong... the final approval of the people is given not to demagogues, slavishly pandering to their selfishness, merchandising with the clamor of the hour, but to statesmen, ministering to their welfare, representing their deep, silent, abiding convictions." He concludes his remarks, saying, "To that, not to selfishness, let the laws of the Commonwealth appeal...Such is the foundation of liberty under the law. Such is the sublime revelation of man's relation to man, Democracy."
October 18
"We ought to be persuaded that the propitious smiles of heaven can never be expected on a nation that disregards the eternal rules of order and right which heaven itself has ordained."
George Washington, 1st President, 1789-1797, From Washington's Inaugural Address in New York, April 30, 1789. In the descriptive and nuanced style of the 1700's, Washington addresses the assembled Senate and House of Representatives for the first time- thirteen years after the Declaration of Independence. In a fairly brief but remarkable speech, Washington shows his love for country, his desire to gain the respect of the countries of the world, and that the American people give credit to the Great Author of every good and to follow the dictates of morality. Now at fifty-seven years of age, Washington states he had hoped to retire to Mt. Vernon, "as the asylum of my declining years...", but "I was summoned by my Country, whose voice I can never hear but with veneration and love, from (my) retreat...". In another remarkable statement, he states he requires no pecuniary compensation, or pay, for performing his service to his beloved country as President, just as he had declined payment as Commander in Chief during the revolution- "When I was first honoured with a call into the Service of my Country, then on the eve of an arduous struggle for its liberties, the light in which I contemplated my duty required that I should renounce every pecuniary compensation. From this resolution I have in no instance departed...and must accordingly pray that the pecuniary estimates for the Station in which I am placed, may, during my continuance in it, be limited to such actual expenditures as the public good may be thought to require." Finally, in accordance with the great religious and philosophical sentiment of the age, he gives great credit to Providence for the success and emergence of the colonies "Every step, by which they have advanced to the character of an independent nation, seems to have been distinguished by some token of providential agency." He places emphasis on the responsibility of the people to have continued devotion to ensure the success of the new nation..."(in) principles of private morality; and...(to)command the respect of the world...there is no truth more thoroughly established, than that there exists ... an indissoluble union between virtue and happiness, between duty and advantage, between the genuine maxims of an honest and magnanimous policy, and the solid rewards of public prosperity and felicity:...we ought to be no less persuaded that the propitious smiles of Heaven, can never be expected on a nation that disregards the eternal rules of order and right, which Heaven itself has ordained: And the preservation of the sacred fire of liberty, and the destiny of the Republican model of Government, are justly considered as deeply, perhaps as finally staked, on the experiment entrusted to the hands of the American people." In his eyes, the blessings of success of the nation depend on the right conduct of its people.
George Washington, 1st President, 1789-1797, From Washington's Inaugural Address in New York, April 30, 1789. In the descriptive and nuanced style of the 1700's, Washington addresses the assembled Senate and House of Representatives for the first time- thirteen years after the Declaration of Independence. In a fairly brief but remarkable speech, Washington shows his love for country, his desire to gain the respect of the countries of the world, and that the American people give credit to the Great Author of every good and to follow the dictates of morality. Now at fifty-seven years of age, Washington states he had hoped to retire to Mt. Vernon, "as the asylum of my declining years...", but "I was summoned by my Country, whose voice I can never hear but with veneration and love, from (my) retreat...". In another remarkable statement, he states he requires no pecuniary compensation, or pay, for performing his service to his beloved country as President, just as he had declined payment as Commander in Chief during the revolution- "When I was first honoured with a call into the Service of my Country, then on the eve of an arduous struggle for its liberties, the light in which I contemplated my duty required that I should renounce every pecuniary compensation. From this resolution I have in no instance departed...and must accordingly pray that the pecuniary estimates for the Station in which I am placed, may, during my continuance in it, be limited to such actual expenditures as the public good may be thought to require." Finally, in accordance with the great religious and philosophical sentiment of the age, he gives great credit to Providence for the success and emergence of the colonies "Every step, by which they have advanced to the character of an independent nation, seems to have been distinguished by some token of providential agency." He places emphasis on the responsibility of the people to have continued devotion to ensure the success of the new nation..."(in) principles of private morality; and...(to)command the respect of the world...there is no truth more thoroughly established, than that there exists ... an indissoluble union between virtue and happiness, between duty and advantage, between the genuine maxims of an honest and magnanimous policy, and the solid rewards of public prosperity and felicity:...we ought to be no less persuaded that the propitious smiles of Heaven, can never be expected on a nation that disregards the eternal rules of order and right, which Heaven itself has ordained: And the preservation of the sacred fire of liberty, and the destiny of the Republican model of Government, are justly considered as deeply, perhaps as finally staked, on the experiment entrusted to the hands of the American people." In his eyes, the blessings of success of the nation depend on the right conduct of its people.
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