This Government, as promised, has maintained the closest surveillance of the Soviet Military buildup on the island of Cuba. Within the past week, unmistakable evidence has established the fact that a series of offensive missile sites is now in preparation on that imprisoned island. The purpose of these bases can be none other than to provide a nuclear strike capability against the Western Hemisphere.
Interpretation
This quote reflects the seriousness of the Cuban Missile Crisis and the need for vigilance against threats.
In this statement, President John F. Kennedy addresses the heightened tensions resulting from the discovery of Soviet missile sites in Cuba. He underscores the importance of monitoring the situation closely, as these installations represent a direct threat to the security of the Western Hemisphere, emphasizing the gravity of Cold War dynamics and the potential for nuclear conflict.
In practice
In a speech about national security, a leader might reference this quote to emphasize the need for constant monitoring of potential threats.
The great battleground for the defense and expansion of freedom today is the whole southern half of the globe... the lands of the rising peoples. Their revolution is the greatest in human history. They seek an end to injustice, tyranny and exploitation. More than an end, they seek a beginning.
I had always enjoyed the title of Commander-in-Chief until I was informed ... that the only forces that cannot be transferred from Washington without my express permission are the members of the Marine Corps Band. Those are the only forces I have. I want it announced that we propose to hold the White House against all odds at least for some time to come.
I am talking about genuine peace, the kind of peace that makes life on earth worth living, the kind that enables men and nations to grow and to hope and to build a better life for their children - not merely peace for Americans but peace for all men and women - not merely peace in our time but peace for all time.
I just received the following wire from my generous Daddy; Dear Jack, Don't buy a single vote more than is necessary. I'll be damned if I'm going to pay for a landslide.
Tolerance implies no lack of commitment to one's own beliefs. Rather it condemns the oppression or persecution of others.
Mankind must put an end to war before war puts an end to mankind.
The ballot is stronger than the bullet.
Conservatives define themselves in terms of what they oppose.
I draw a very clear distinction between populism and democracy.
I am making a collection of the things my opponents have found me to be and, when this election is over, I am going to open a museum and put them on display.
Politics is a matter of day-to-day improvisation, and it often seems as though the major parties are guided only by the desire to stay in office and not by any philosophy that might justify their doing so.
Our Republic and its press will rise or fall together.
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