Afar Quote by Daniel Webster
“On this question of principle, while actual suffering was yet afar off, they [the Colonies] raised their flag against a power to which, for purposes of foreign conquest and subjugation, Rome in the height of her glory is not to be compared,-a power which has dotted over the surface of the whole globe with her possessions and military posts, whose morning drum-beat, following the sun, and keeping company with the hours, circles the earth with one continuous and unbroken strain of the martial airs of England.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Congressional Address, Daniel Webster, 1842
Britain’s global empire is portrayed as an unstoppable military force, contrasting with colonial resistance.
In simple terms: Britain’s empire is vast and powerful.
Recognize the weight of imperial power.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- historical analysis
- political debate
- educational curriculum
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How did colonies view British power?
- What were the limits of imperial control?
Overlooks internal dissent within the empire.