Calvin Coolidge

It ought not to abdicate its power through weakness or resign its authority through favor.

It is the greatest contributing factor to the stability strength liberty, and progress of the Nation.

Local self-government is one of our most precious possessions.

The greatest solicitude should be exercised to prevent any encroachment upon the rights of the States or their various political subdivisions.

In our country the people are sovereign and independent, and must accept the resulting responsibilities.

We are by far the most likely to accomplish permanent good if we proceed with moderation.

The age of perfection is still in the somewhat distant future, but it is more in danger of being retarded by mistaken Government activity than it is from lack of legislation.

It is convinced that it will be impossible for the people to provide their own government unless they continue to own their own property.

It believes that within these limitations, which are imposed not by the fiat of man but by the law of the Creator, self-government is just and wise.

It does not propose to abandon the theory of the Declaration that the people have inalienable rights which no majority and no power of government can destroy.

Terms and conditions may have to conform to differences in the financial abilities of the countries concerned, but the principle that each country should meet its obligation admits of no differences and is of universal application.

I do not favor oppressive measures, but unless money that is borrowed is repaid credit can not be secured in time of necessity, and there exists besides a moral obligation which our country can not ignore and no other country can evade.

I am opposed to the cancellation of these debts and believe it for the best welfare of the world that they should be liquidated and paid as fast as possible.

Along with our desire for peace is the earnest hope for the increased prosperity of our sister republics of Latin America, and our constant purpose to promote cooperation with them which may be mutually beneficial and always inspired by…

While, as I have said, we must safeguard our liberty to deal according to our own judgment with our domestic policies, we can not fail to view with sympathetic interest all progress to this desired end or carefully to study the measures…

It is in harmony with the traditional policy of our country, which is against aggressive war and for the maintenance of permanent and honorable peace.

America has been one of the foremost nations in advocating tribunals for the settlement of international disputes of a justiciable character.

Right and truth and justice and humanitarian efforts will have the moral support of this country all over the world.

While we desire always to cooperate and to help, we are equally determined to be independent and free.

Our past adherence to this policy, our constant refusal to maintain a military establishment that could be thought to menace the security of others, our honorable dealings with other nations whether great or small, has left us in the…

Ultimately nations, like individuals, can not depend upon each other but must depend upon themselves.

We desire to see Europe restored that it may resume its productivity in the increase of industry and its support in the advance of civilization.

Our actions in the recent months have greatly strengthened the American policy of permanent peace with independence.

I want the armed forces of America to be considered by all peoples not as enemies but as friends as the contribution which is made by this country for the maintenance of the peace and security of the world.

I shall resist any attempt to resort to the old methods and the old standards.