We were hampered in that struggle by the ignorant and unspeakably foolish belief that somehow or other America was so big and smart a Nation that we did not need a Navy, and could improvise one out of hand if the need ever arose.
Roosevelt criticizes the naive belief that America could easily create a navy when needed.
Share
More from Teddy Roosevelt
I care for the great deeds of the past chiefly as spurs to drive us onward in the present.
I absolutely agree with you that this matter is not one to be decided with any reference to the personal preferences or interests of any man, but purely from the standpoint of the interests of the people as a whole.
France is one of these nations. For her to sink would be a loss to all the world.
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.
Other voices in this conversation
