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Believing that the happiness of mankind is best promoted…

“Believing that the happiness of mankind is best promoted by the useful pursuits of peace, that on these alone a stable prosperity can be founded, that the evils of war are great in their endurance, and have a long reckoning for ages to come, I have used my best endeavors to keep our country…” quote by Thomas Jefferson
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“Believing that the happiness of mankind is best promoted by the useful pursuits of peace, that on these alone a stable prosperity can be founded, that the evils of war are great in their endurance, and have a long reckoning for ages to come, I have used my best endeavors to keep our country uncommitted in the troubles which afflict Europe, and which assail us on every side.”

Thomas Jefferson

About This Quote

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

Promoting peace and useful pursuits leads to stable prosperity, while war’s lasting evils threaten future generations.

In simple terms: Peace fosters prosperity; war harms long term.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize peace and constructive endeavors.

Themes

peace prosperity war

Mood

optimistic strategic

Type

political philosophical

When to use this quote

  • foreign policy
  • community building
  • education reform

Key Concepts

political theory economics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can societies balance peace with security?
  • What “useful pursuits” benefit humanity today?
A Different Perspective

Peace may be unrealistic in hostile geopolitical climates.

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