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In time of this grave national danger, when all excess income should go to win the war, no American citizen ought to have a net income, after he has paid his taxes, of more than $25,000 a year.
Franklin D. Roosevelt
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Roosevelt advocates for income limits to support the war effort during national crises.

In this quote, Franklin D. Roosevelt emphasizes the importance of national solidarity and sacrifice during times of grave danger, suggesting that during a war, citizens should prioritize the country's needs over personal wealth. He proposes that no American should have a net income exceeding $25,000 after taxes to ensure that the nation's resources are directed towards winning the war.

Themes

WarSacrificeIncomePatriotismNational Unity

In practice

Example use cases

This quote can be used in a speech about economic equality during emergencies.

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