Americanism is a question of principle, of idealism, of character. It is not a matter of birthplace, or creed, or line of descent.
Theodore RooseveltRead
Every immigrant who comes here should be required within five years to learn English or leave the country.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of language acquisition for immigrants as a means of integration into society.
Theodore Roosevelt's quote advocates for the necessity of learning English as a crucial step for immigrants to fully participate in American society. He suggests that after five years, immigrants should either have learned the language to support their integration or consider leaving the country, highlighting the value placed on communication and cultural assimilation in society.
Themes
ImmigrationEnglishLanguageIntegrationSociety
In practice
Example use cases
A speaker at an immigration conference may reference this quote to discuss language policies.
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