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History is but the unrolled scroll of prophecy.
James A. Garfield
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Interpretation

What this quote means

History reveals the predictions of the past that have unfolded over time.

James A. Garfield suggests that history serves as a record of prophecies that have come to fruition. By examining historical events, we can see how past predictions and intentions have shaped the present, indicating that understanding history is crucial for interpreting our current reality and anticipating the future.

Themes

HistoryProphecyFuturePastUnderstanding

In practice

Example use cases

In a lecture on historical studies, one might say, 'As James A. Garfield once stated, history is but the unrolled scroll of prophecy, reminding us of the importance of learning from our past.'

More from James A. Garfield

Statistical science is indispensable to modern statesmanship. In legislation as in physical science it is beginning to be understood that we can control terrestrial forces only by obeying their laws. The legislator must formulate in his statutes not only the national will, but also those great laws of social life revealed by statistics.
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I am trying to do two things: dare to be a radical and not a fool, which is a matter of no small difficulty.
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Justice and goodwill will outlast passion.
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Now more than ever the people are responsible for the character of their Congress. If that body be ignorant, reckless, and corrupt, it is because the people tolerate ignorance, recklessness, and corruption.
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If the power to do hard work is not a skill, it's the best possible substitute for it.
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Next in importance to freedom and justice is popular education, without which neither freedom nor justice can be permanently maintained.
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