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It is a fearful thing to lead this great peaceful people…

“It is a fearful thing to lead this great peaceful people into war, into the most terrible and disastrous of all wars, civilizationitself seeming to be in the balance. But the right is more precious than peace, and we shall fight for the things we have always carried closest to our hearts.” quote by Woodrow Wilson
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“It is a fearful thing to lead this great peaceful people into war, into the most terrible and disastrous of all wars, civilizationitself seeming to be in the balance. But the right is more precious than peace, and we shall fight for the things we have always carried closest to our hearts.”

Woodrow Wilson

About This Quote

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

War is a grave responsibility, but defending core values may outweigh peace; the fight is for cherished principles.

In simple terms: War is terrible but sometimes necessary for values.

Key Takeaway

Defend core values, even at war’s cost.

Themes

war values peace principles

Mood

somber determined

Type

historical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • parliamentary debate
  • military mobilization
  • public morale
  • historical analysis

Key Concepts

ethical duty national identity civic responsibility

Questions to Reflect On

  • What values are worth fighting for?
  • How do societies balance peace and principle?
A Different Perspective

War can cause massive loss and may not always protect values.

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