On the record
He talked reform and grew degenerate; he proclaimed patriotic views and held disloyal sentiments; he listened respectfully to public opinion, and defied it openly in his acts.
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gutenberg.orgEditor's note · Context
This quote critiques a leader's hypocrisy, highlighting the gap between rhetoric and actions in politics.
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Public sentiment generally sustained the Administration in such action, but many persons, including conservative Republicans, frequently questioned the right or justice of such procedure.
Its attitude was strong, defiant, and its only purpose apparently was to create a public sentiment hostile to the extension of slavery.
His lightest word, sent thrilling to the rim of a vast audience, swayed it with the magic of control.
Perhaps, on the whole, nothing in Van Buren's official life showed greater political courage or discernment.
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