“ A people that values its privileges above its principles soon loses both. ”
Dwight D. Eisenhower, First Inaugural Address (1953). copy citation
| Author | Dwight D. Eisenhower |
|---|---|
| Source | First Inaugural Address |
| Topic | principles society privilege |
| Date | 1953 |
| Language | English |
| Reference | |
| Note | |
| Weblink | https://en.wikisource.org/wiki/Dwight_Eisenhower's_First_Inaugural_Addre... |
Context
“For history does not long entrust the care of freedom to the weak or the timid. We must acquire proficiency in defense and display stamina in purpose.
We must be willing, individually and as a Nation, to accept whatever sacrifices may be required of us. A people that values its privileges above its principles soon loses both.
These basic precepts are not lofty abstractions, far removed from matters of daily living. They are laws of spiritual strength that generate and define our material strength. Patriotism means equipped forces and a prepared citizenry.” source
We must be willing, individually and as a Nation, to accept whatever sacrifices may be required of us. A people that values its privileges above its principles soon loses both.
These basic precepts are not lofty abstractions, far removed from matters of daily living. They are laws of spiritual strength that generate and define our material strength. Patriotism means equipped forces and a prepared citizenry.” source
Meaning and analysis
