Those who have wrought great changes in the world never succeeded by gaining over chiefs; but always by exciting the multitude. The first is the resource of intrigue and produces only secondary results, the second is the resort of genius and transforms the universe.
Interpretation
True change comes from engaging the masses rather than influencing leaders.
Martin Van Buren emphasizes that significant transformations in society are achieved not by persuading those in power, but by inspiring and mobilizing the general population. This reflects the idea that genuine progress emerges from grassroots movements driven by the collective will and creativity of the people, rather than mere political machinations or negotiations with elites.
In practice
During a speech at a rally, one might reference this quote to emphasize the importance of community involvement in driving social change.
To avoid the necessity of a permanent debt and its inevitable consequences, I have advocated and endeavored to carry into effect the policy of confining the appropriations for the public service to such objects only as are clearly with the constitutional authority of the Federal Government.
In time of peace there can, at all events, be no justification for the creation of a permanent debt by the Federal Government. Its limited range of constitutional duties may certainly under such circumstances be performed without such a resort.
It is easier to do a job right than to explain why you didn't.
The less government interferes with private pursuits, the better for general prosperity.
I tread in the footsteps of illustrious men, whose superiors it is our happiness to believe are not found on the executive calendar of any country.
The government should not be guided by Temporary Excitement, but by Sober Second Thought.
Nearly all Americans have ancestors who braved the oceans - liberty-loving risk takers in search of an ideal - the largest voluntary migrations in recorded history... Immigration is not just a link to America's past; it's also a bridge to America's future.
We can choose to alleviate suffering. We can choose to work together for peace. We can make these changes - and we must.
There are 4 billion cell phones in use today. Many of them are in the hands of market vendors, rickshaw drivers, and others who've historically lacked access to education and opportunity. Information networks have become a great leveler, and we should use them together to help lift people out of poverty and give them a freedom from want.
From this vision of the role of the United Nations in the next century flow three key priorities for the future: eradicating poverty, preventing conflict and promoting democracy.
The wind of change is blowing through the continent. Whether we like it or not, this growth of national consciousness is a political fact.
People who bring transformative change have courage, know how to re-frame the problem and have a sense of urgency.
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