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Action Quote by Dwight D. Eisenhower

“I could have spoken from Rhode Island where I have been staying ... But I felt that, in speaking from the house of Lincoln, of Jackson, and of Wilson, my words would better convey both the sadness I feel in the action I was compelled today to make and the firmness with which I intend to pursue…” quote by Dwight D. Eisenhower
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“I could have spoken from Rhode Island where I have been staying ... But I felt that, in speaking from the house of Lincoln, of Jackson, and of Wilson, my words would better convey both the sadness I feel in the action I was compelled today to make and the firmness with which I intend to pursue this course until the orders of the federal court at Little Rock can be executed without unlawful interference." (On sending troops to enforce integration in Little Rock AR High School)”

Dwight D. Eisenhower

About This Quote

Source Speech: Little Rock Integration, 1957

Justifies federal enforcement of integration despite personal discomfort.

In simple terms: Supports law enforcement for civil rights.

Key Takeaway

Uphold constitutional duties over personal feelings.

Themes

civil rights law leadership

Mood

determined formal

Type

historical political

When to use this quote

  • military orders
  • court rulings
  • public protest

Key Concepts

federal authority social justice

Questions to Reflect On

  • How to balance law and empathy?
  • What role does personal conviction play?
A Different Perspective

Risk of appearing authoritarian.

2.2 out of 5 (7 ratings)

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