Political Quotes

Teddy Roosevelt: “But there is just as little use for the foolish optimist who refuses to face the many and real evils that exist, and who…”

On the recordJanuary 1, 1900
But there is just as little use for the foolish optimist who refuses to face the many and real evils that exist, and who fails to see that the only way to ensure the triumph of righteousness in the future is to war against all that is base, weak, and unlovely in the present.
Said by
Teddy Roosevelt
Republican · New York

Editor's note · Context

From his speech "The Strenuous Life," this passage critiques naive optimism, advocating for active engagement against present evils to secure a righteous future.

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Oct 13, 1912

I wish to say that the Progressive Party is making its appeal to all our fellow citizens without any regard to their creed or to their birthplace.

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Like all other good citizens, I accept the result with entire good humor and contentment.

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