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[America's] glory is not dominion, but liberty. Her march…

“[America's] glory is not dominion, but liberty. Her march is the march of the mind. She has a spear and a shield: but the motto upon her shield is Freedom, Independence, Peace. This has been her declaration: this has been, as far as her necessary intercourse with the rest of mankind would permit…” quote by John Quincy Adams
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“[America's] glory is not dominion, but liberty. Her march is the march of the mind. She has a spear and a shield: but the motto upon her shield is Freedom, Independence, Peace. This has been her declaration: this has been, as far as her necessary intercourse with the rest of mankind would permit, her practice.”

John Quincy Adams

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Advocates liberty as the true purpose of a nation, not domination.

In simple terms: Freedom, not control, defines a nation's greatness.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize liberty and peace.

Themes

freedom peace national purpose

Mood

hopeful serious

Type

political philosophical

When to use this quote

  • government policy
  • international relations
  • citizen activism

Key Concepts

political philosophy human rights

Questions to Reflect On

  • What sacrifices are needed to protect freedom?
  • How can nations avoid domination while pursuing interests?
A Different Perspective

Balancing liberty with security can be challenging.

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