Political Quotes

Edmund Burke: “But it seems our nation had more skill and ability in destroying than in settling a colony.”

On the record
But it seems our nation had more skill and ability in destroying than in settling a colony.
Said by
Edmund Burke

Editor's note · Context

Burke critiques the British Empire's failure in colonial endeavors, suggesting a lack of skill in establishing colonies.

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More from Edmund Burke

Jan 1, 1790

I would not exclude alteration neither; but even when I changed, it should be to preserve.

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Whatever they are, I wish my countrymen rather to recommend to our neighbors the example of the British Constitution than to take models from them for the improvement of our own.

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Jan 1, 1790

They will become flatterers instead of legislators,--the instruments, not the guides of the people.

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Jan 1, 1790

But when the leaders choose to make themselves bidders at an auction of popularity, their talents, in the construction of the state, will be of no service.

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