Fear Quote by Elinor Burkett
““Nixon quickly laid Golda’s fears to rest. Despite reams of memoranda from his staff warning him not to succumb to the Israeli prime minister’s charms, alone with the grandmotherly woman for more than an hour and a half, Nixon couldn’t resist her. “I remember so well when we sat down in the chairs in the Oval Office, and the photographers came in…and we were shaking hands, and she was smiling and making the right friendly comments,” Nixon recalled. “Then the photographers left the room. She crossed her legs, lit a cigarette and said, ‘Now, Mr. President, what are you going to do about those planes that we want and we need very much?’…Golda Meir acted like a man and wanted to be treated like a man. There is no question that she was a very strong, intelligent leader in her own right.””
About This Quote
Source Interview: Oral History with Golda Meir, 1970s
Nixon was charmed by Golda Meir despite warnings, revealing personal dynamics in political decision‑making.
In simple terms: Personal charm can override political caution.
Key Takeaway
Consider personal influence in leadership.
Themes
politics
leadership
personal dynamics
gender
historical narrative
Mood
analytical
historical
Type
Fear:0
Nixon:0
Golda Meir:0
Comments Nixon:0
Nixon Couldn:0
Nixon Quickly:0
When to use this quote
- political negotiations
- leadership training
- gender studies
- historical research
Key Concepts
diplomacy
decision making
gender roles
historical accounts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do personal relationships affect political outcomes?
- What role did gender play in perceptions of leadership?
A Different Perspective
Personal anecdotes may not represent broader policy.
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