Freedom Quote by Booker T. Washington
““Among a large class, there seemed to be a dependence upon the government for every conceivable thing. The members of this class had little ambition to create a position for themselves, but wanted the federal officials to create one for them. How many times I wished then and have often wished since, that by some power of magic, I might remove the great bulk of these people into the country districts and plant them upon the soil – upon the solid and never deceptive foundation of Mother Nature, where all nations and races that have ever succeeded have gotten their start – a start that at first may be slow and toilsome, but one that nevertheless is real.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Up From Slavery, 1901
He laments a class dependent on government, urging them to work the land and build real, self‑reliant foundations.
In simple terms: Encourages self‑reliance over government dependence.
Key Takeaway
Promote personal labor and independence.
Themes
self‑reliance
government dependence
agrarianism
nation building
Mood
determined
hopeful
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- rural settlement
- entrepreneurship
- community development
- education reform
Key Concepts
individualism
economic independence
social mobility
Questions to Reflect On
- What can individuals do today to become more self‑reliant?
- How can societies balance government support with personal initiative?
A Different Perspective
Idealizing rural labor may ignore modern economic complexities.
