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
In foreign affairs we must make up our minds that whether we wish it or not, we are a great people and must play a great part in the world. It is not open to us to choose whether we will play that great part or not.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the responsibility that comes with being a significant nation in global affairs.
Theodore Roosevelt's quote reflects the idea that as a prominent nation, there are expectations and obligations to fulfill impactful roles on the world stage. It suggests that regardless of personal desires or preferences, the status of being a 'great people' imposes a duty to engage actively and responsibly in international matters, highlighting the importance of leadership and influence in shaping global events.
Themes
ResponsibilityLeadershipGlobal AffairsNational IdentityObligation
In practice
Example use cases
This quote is perfect for a graduation speech to inspire young leaders about their role in society.
More from Theodore Roosevelt
All quotes →It tires me to talk to rich men. You expect a man of millions, the head of a great industry, to be a man worthhearing; but as a rule they don't know anything outside their own business.
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No man should receive a dollar unless that dollar has been fairly earned.
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Keep your eyes on the stars, and your feet on the ground.
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Conservation means development as much as it does protection._x000D_ _x000D_ A man's usefulness depends upon his living up to his ideals insofar as he can.
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It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; . . . who at best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly.
Theodore RooseveltRead
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