Capable Quote by Albert J. Beveridge
“The Philippines are ours forever. They are not capable of self-government. How could they be? They are not a self-governing race.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: 1900 American Imperialist speech, "The Philippines: A Study of the New American Empire"
Claims the Philippines cannot self-govern, justifying U.S. control as a civilizing mission.
In simple terms: He argues the Philippines are incapable of self-rule, supporting colonization.
Key Takeaway
Question assumptions about a peoples' capacity for self-governance.
Themes
imperialism
racism
colonialism
paternalism
politics
Mood
critical
historical
Type
political
academic
When to use this quote
- policy making
- education
- historical analysis
- human rights advocacy
Key Concepts
nationalism
ethics
history
Questions to Reflect On
- How did colonial narratives shape perceptions of competence?
- What evidence contradicts the claim of incapability?
A Different Perspective
The view is historically biased and ignores Filipino agency and capability.
![“He has made us the master organizers of the world . . . to overwhelm the forces of reaction throught the earth . . . . This is the divine mission of America . . . . We are trustees of the world's progress, guardians of its righteous peace. [Progressive]” quote by Albert J. Beveridge](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/16d/albert-j-beveridge-44836_america_he-has-made-us-the-master-organizers-of_792049.jpg)
![“[The Community's] crosses and trials give me confidence. But I derive my hope above all, and most especially, from our utter incapacity, for it is always upon nothingness that God is pleased to rear His works. If at any day we accomplish some good here, the glory will certainly be His alone, since…” quote by Theodore Guerin](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/2b8/theodore-guerin-54729_accomplish_the-community-s-crosses-and-trials-give_7176.jpg)
