On the record
If called to it, let us at the outset admit our unfitness, withdraw within our own borders, and leave these larger duties of the world to less incapable races or less craven rulers.
Said by
Whitelaw Reid
Source
gutenberg.orgWhitelaw Reid: “If called to it, let us at the outset admit our unfitness, withdraw within our own borders, and leave these larger…”
Editor's note · Context
Reid suggests that if the U.S. feels unfit for its global responsibilities, it should withdraw from international affairs.
Share
More from Whitelaw Reid
It is my firm conviction, that suffrage is not only the best security for freedom, but the most potent agent of amelioration and civilization.
They should persist in this claim respectfully, but firmly, taking care to bring no discredit upon it by their own action.
Our national experience has demonstrated that public order reposes most securely on the broad base of universal suffrage.
Never was there a problem more serious or difficult than that which is now before the Nation, as to this race, whose destiny has been confided to the wisdom and honor of our Government.