Teddy Roosevelt: “I feel that if we have it the chances are that we will not need it…”

On the record

I feel that if we have it the chances are that we will not need it; but that if we do not have it, we might find that our need for it was vital.

Said by

Republican · New York

Source

Roosevelt reflects on the paradox of needing military readiness while hoping to avoid conflict.

More from Teddy Roosevelt

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I am not sick at all. I am all right.

Oct 13, 1912

I am absorbed in the success of that movement.

Oct 13, 1912

I want every labor man, every labor leader, every organized union man, to take the lead in denouncing crime or violence.

Nov 4, 1912

The American people by a great plurality have conferred upon you the highest honor in their gift.

Other voices in this conversation

Teddy Roosevelt: “I feel that if we have it the chances are that we will not need it; but that if we do not have it, we might find that…”