Political Quotes

On the record
That he is not a politician, in the modern sense of the word, I admit; and if indirection, trickery, and the habit of looking upon men, parties, and principles as mere stock in trade and tools of convenience are the qualifications of statecraft, then he is not a statesman.
Said by
Charles Sumner
Massachusetts

Editor's note · Context

Sumner distinguishes between modern political tactics and the qualities of a true statesman, emphasizing integrity over manipulation.

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In this contest, we may borrow from the ancient Greek, who, when his hands were cut off, fought with his stumps, and even with his teeth.

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Out of this pernicious prejudice have proceeded that persecution and neglect which are the too frequent lot of the world's pioneers.

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They are but leaders of the two contending factions into which the Slave Power is divided.

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The subterfuges of the politician cannot escape it.

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