Political Quotes

On the record
It is not possible to justify the backwoodsmen by appeal to principles which we would accept as binding on their descendants, or on the mighty nation which has sprung up and flourished in the soil they first won and tilled.
Said by
Teddy Roosevelt
Republican · New York

Editor's note · Context

Roosevelt reflects on the complexities of justifying the actions of early settlers by modern standards.

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More from Teddy Roosevelt

Feb 23, 1912

I deeply appreciate your letter, and I realize to the full the heavy responsibility it puts upon me.

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