We view ourselves on the eve of battle. We are nerved for the conquest and must conquer or perish. It is vain to look for present aid: None is at hand. We must now act or abandon all hope!
Sam HoustonRead
All new states are invested, more or less, by a class of noisy, second-rate men who are always in favor of rash and extreme measures, but Texas was absolutely overrun by such men.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote suggests that newly established states often attract impulsive leaders, and Texas had an abundance of such figures.
Sam Houston reflects on the nature of leadership in newly formed states, suggesting that they are often populated by individuals who prefer bold and reckless approaches to governance. He specifically notes that Texas was particularly affected by this phenomenon, implying that the challenges faced during its formation were exacerbated by the presence of overly ambitious and perhaps less qualified leaders who favored drastic measures instead of prudent decision-making.
Themes
LeadershipPoliticsTexasImpulsivenessGovernance
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be used in a political discussion about the challenges new governments face.
More from Sam Houston
All quotes →The soldier who gropes for glory must submit himself to discipline. Subordination gives strength and security to an army. He that will not submit to it when corrected and improved by the experience of ages does not deserve the proud appellation of a soldier.
Sam HoustonRead
I have ever been opposed to banks, - opposed to internal improvements by the general government, - opposed to distribution of public lands among the states, - opposed to taking the power from the hands of the people, - opposed to special monopolies, - opposed to a protective tariff, - opposed to a latitudinal construction of the constitution, - opposed to slavery agitation and disunion. This is my democracy. Point to a single act of my public career not in keeping with these principles.
Sam HoustonRead
I declare that civil war is inevitable and is near at hand. When it comes the descendants of the heroes of Lexington and Bunker Hill will be found equal in patriotism, courage and heroic endurance with the descendants of the heroes of Cowpens and Yorktown. For this reason I predict the civil war which is now at hand will be stubborn and of long duration.
Sam HoustonRead
A leader is someone who helps improve the lives of other people or improve the system they live under.
Sam HoustonRead
There would be no difficulty in securing the rights of the people and the liberties of Texas if men would march to their duty and not fly like recreants from danger. Texas must be defended and liberty maintained.
Sam HoustonRead
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