Let us not forget that the cultivation of the earth is the most important labor of man. When tillage begins, other arts will follow. The farmers, therefore, are the founders of civilization.
Daniel WebsterRead
Hold on, my friends, to the Constitution of your country and the government established under it. Leave evils which exist in some parts of the country, but which are beyond your control, to the all-wise direction of an over-ruling Providence. Perform those duties which are present, plain and positive. Respect the laws of your country.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Cherish your country's Constitution and focus on your duties while leaving uncontrollable evils to a higher power.
This quote by Daniel Webster emphasizes the importance of upholding the Constitution and the governance it stands for, urging individuals to concentrate on their immediate responsibilities and adhere to the laws of the land, rather than being overwhelmed by the evils present in society that lie beyond their individual control. Webster encourages acceptance of certain circumstances as part of a greater divine plan, suggesting that one's best course of action is to fulfill one's duties and maintain respect for societal principles.
Themes
ConstitutionGovernmentDutyLawControlResponsibility
In practice
Example use cases
During a civic engagement speech, one could use this quote to inspire citizens to uphold democratic values.
More from Daniel Webster
All quotes →No man not inspired can make a good speech without preparation.
Daniel WebsterRead
We have been taught to regard a representative of the people as a sentinel on the watch-tower of liberty.
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I was born an American; I will live an American; I shall die an American.
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Man is a special being, and if left to himself, in an isolated condition, would be one of the weakest creatures; but associated with his kind, he works wonders.
Daniel WebsterRead
I regard it (the Constitution) as the work of the purest patriots and wisest statesman that ever existed, aided by the smiles of a benign Providence; it almost appears a "Divine interposition in our behalf... the hand that destroys our Constitution rends our Union asunder forever.
Daniel WebsterRead
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