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A great man, tender of heart, strong of nerve, boundless patience and broadest sympathy, with no motive apart from his country.
Frederick Douglass
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Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote describes the qualities of an admirable leader who is compassionate, patient, and selflessly devoted to their country.

Frederick Douglass highlights the essential traits of a great leader: a tender heart that shows empathy towards others, a strong nerve that indicates resilience and courage, and an unwavering commitment to the betterment of their country without any selfish motives. This reinforces the idea that true leadership is about serving others and having the emotional strength to withstand challenges for the greater good.

Themes

LeadershipEmpathyStrengthServiceCountry

In practice

Example use cases

In a speech about community service, you might quote Douglass to inspire fellow citizens to serve selflessly.

More from Frederick Douglass

Slaves sing most when they are most unhappy. The songs of the slave represent the sorrows of his heart; and he is relieved by them, only as an aching heart is relieved by its tears.
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I do not think much of the good luck theory of self-made men. It is worth but little attention and has no practical value.
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To suppress free speech is a double wrong. It violates the rights of the hearer as well as those of the speaker.
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The Constitution is a GLORIOUS LIBERTY DOCUMENT. Read its preamble, consider it purposes. Is slavery among them? Is it at the gateway? or is it in the temple? it is neither.
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Find out just what any people will quietly submit to and you have the exact measure of the injustice and wrong which will be imposed on them.
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