As regards internal affairs, it should teach us the prime need of remembering that, after all has been said and done, the chief factor in any man’s success or failure must be his own character—that is, the sum of his common-sense, his courage, his virile energy and capacity.
Discussing the factors influencing individual outcomes, this passage emphasizes character as the ultimate determinant of success or failure.
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More from Teddy Roosevelt
I speak of the men of the past partly that they may be honored by our praise of them, but more that they may serve as examples for the future.
Every special interest is entitled to justice—full, fair, and complete—and, now, mind you, if there were any attempt by mob-violence to plunder and work harm to the special interest, whatever it may be, that I most dislike, and the wealthy…
One of the chief principles for which I have stood, and for which I now stand, and which I have always endeavored and always shall endeavor to reduce to action, is the genuine rule of the people.
Like all other good citizens, I accept the result with entire good humor and contentment.
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