Battles against Rome have been lost and won before, but…
““Battles against Rome have been lost and won before, but hope was never abandoned, since we were always here in reserve. We, the choicest flower of Britain's manhood, were hidden away in her most secret places. Out of sight of subject shores, we kept even our eyes free from the defilement of tyranny. We, the most distant dwellers upon earth, the last of the free, have been shielded till today by our very remoteness and by the obscurity in which it has shrouded our name. Now, the farthest bounds of Britain lie open to our enemies; and what men know nothing about they always assume to be a valuable prize… A rich enemy excites their cupidity; a poor one, their lust for power. East and West alike have failed to satisfy them. They are the only people on earth to whose covetousness both riches and poverty are equally tempting. To robbery, butchery and rapine, they give the lying name of 'government'; they create a desolation and call it peace...””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Describes Britain's remote resilience against empire, emphasizing that isolation and obscurity have protected its freedom, while warning that wealth and poverty alike tempt conquest.
In simple terms: Isolation has shielded Britain, but greed threatens all.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the double‑edged nature of wealth and poverty.
Themes
history
imperialism
national identity
Mood
reflective
cautious
Type
historical
political
When to use this quote
- colonial studies
- foreign policy
- strategic planning
Key Concepts
geopolitics
resource competition
cultural resilience
Questions to Reflect On
- How does isolation affect national security?
- What lessons can be drawn about wealth and power?
A Different Perspective
Historical context may differ from modern realities.