The Public Record
Woodrow Wilson was the 28th President of the United States, serving from 1913 to 1921. A member of the Democratic Party, he was born in Virginia and raised in Georgia before moving to New Jersey, where he became a prominent political figure. Wilson was a key leader of the Progressive Movement, advocating for reforms such as antitrust legislation and the establishment of the Federal Reserve System. His presidency is also noted for significant events such as the United States' involvement in World War I and his efforts to promote the League of Nations, an international organization aimed at preventing future conflicts.
It is impossible at this distance that my voice should reach all of you, but I want you to know that I bring the greetings, and affectionate greetings, of the people of the United States to the people of Italy and the people of the great…
I am sure that I am only speaking the sentiments that come from the heart of the American people when I say, Viva l'Italia.
After all, when we are seeking peace, we are seeking nothing else than this, that men shall think the same thoughts.
You can not trade with a man who does not trust you, and you will not trade with a man whom you do not trust.
But one permanent common possession has remained, and that is the validity of sound thinking.
Our ties had been many and intimate before the war, and now they constitute a pledge of friendship and of permanent association of purpose which must delight both people.
It has been a very happy circumstance that America should be thus associated with Italy.
May I not, therefore, again thank you for the honor you have conferred upon me, and take the privilege of greeting you affectionately as my fellow citizens?
It is very delightful to feel my association with that government and with this city.
I am aware, sir, that those of us who are now charged with the very great and serious responsibility of concluding the peace must think and act and confer in the presence of this opinion.
I want to reecho the hope that we may all work together for a great peace as distinguished from a mean peace.
Politicians like Woodrow Wilson
