It was undoubtedly to our discredit, and to our temporary harm, that we refused to follow either course; it showed the existence of very undesirable national qualities, for it showed that we were loud in claiming rights which we lacked the resolution and foresight to enforce.
Roosevelt critiques the national character of his time, pointing out the failure to act decisively on claimed rights.
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More from Teddy Roosevelt
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.
Character must show itself in the man's performance both of the duty he owes himself and of the duty he owes the State.
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