Many republics have risen in the past, and some of them flourished long, but sooner or later they fell; and the cause most potent in bringing about their fall was in almost all cases the fact that they grew to be governments in the interest of a class instead of governments in the interest of all.
Roosevelt warns against the dangers of class-based governance, highlighting historical patterns of republics' failures.
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The fate of the leader for the time being is of little consequence, but the cause itself must in the end triumph, for its triumph is essential to the well-being of the American people.
The American people by a great plurality have conferred upon you the highest honor in their gift.
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