Among a large class, there seemed to be a dependence upon…
““Among a large class, there seemed to be a dependence upon the government for every conceivable thing. The members of this class had little ambition to create a position for themselves, but wanted the federal officials to create one for them. How many times I wished then and have often wished since, that by some power of magic, I might remove the great bulk of these people into the country districts and plant them upon the soil – upon the solid and never deceptive foundation of Mother Nature, where all nations and races that have ever succeeded have gotten their start – a start that at first may be slow and toilsome, but one that nevertheless is real.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
He laments a class dependent on government, urging them to work the land and build real, self‑reliant foundations.
In simple terms: Encourages self‑reliance over government dependence.
Key Takeaway
Promote personal labor and independence.
Themes
self‑reliance
government dependence
agrarianism
nation building
Mood
determined
hopeful
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- rural settlement
- entrepreneurship
- community development
- education reform
Key Concepts
individualism
economic independence
social mobility
Questions to Reflect On
- What can individuals do today to become more self‑reliant?
- How can societies balance government support with personal initiative?
A Different Perspective
Idealizing rural labor may ignore modern economic complexities.