Americanism is a question of principle, of idealism, of character. It is not a matter of birthplace, or creed, or line of descent.
Theodore RooseveltRead
The great body of our citizens shoot less as times goes on. We should encourage rifle practice among schoolboys, and indeed among all classes, as well as in the military services by every means in our power. Thus, and not otherwise, may we be able to assist in preserving peace in the world... The first step – in the direction of preparation to avert war if possible, and to be fit for war if it should come – is to teach men to shoot!
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of promoting shooting skills for self-defense and peace.
The quote by Theodore Roosevelt suggests that as society evolves, individuals are becoming less adept in skills necessary for protection and defense, such as shooting. Roosevelt believes that encouraging rifle practice among citizens, particularly young boys and military personnel, is essential not only for preparing for potential conflicts but also for fostering a spirit of readiness and responsibility that may help to preserve peace.
Themes
ShootingPreparationPeaceMilitaryTrainingResponsibility
In practice
Example use cases
During a school presentation on the importance of self-defense skills, one might quote Roosevelt to highlight the value of firearms training.
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Conservation means development as much as it does protection._x000D_ _x000D_ A man's usefulness depends upon his living up to his ideals insofar as he can.
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It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; . . . who at best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly.
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