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Banking Quote by Franklin D. Roosevelt

“For nearly four years you have had an Administration which instead of twirling its thumbs has rolled up its sleeves. We will keep our sleeves rolled up. We had to struggle with the old enemies of peace--business and financial monopoly, speculation, reckless banking, class antagonism, sectionalism…” quote by Franklin D. Roosevelt
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““For nearly four years you have had an Administration which instead of twirling its thumbs has rolled up its sleeves. We will keep our sleeves rolled up. We had to struggle with the old enemies of peace--business and financial monopoly, speculation, reckless banking, class antagonism, sectionalism, war profiteering. They had begun to consider the Government of the United States as a mere appendage to their own affairs. We know now that Government by organized money is just as dangerous as Government by organized mob.””

Franklin D. Roosevelt

About This Quote

Source Speech: Fireside Chat, 1937, United States Presidential Address

Roosevelt argues that government must actively confront economic and social threats rather than remain passive, warning that both corporate and mob control are dangerous.

In simple terms: Government must act against powerful interests.

Key Takeaway

Stay vigilant and act against corruption.

Themes

government economics justice activism

Mood

determined serious

Type

political historical

When to use this quote

  • policy reform
  • anti‑trust enforcement
  • financial oversight
  • civil rights advocacy

Key Concepts

regulation public policy power dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • What modern forces threaten democratic governance?
  • How can citizens hold power accountable?
A Different Perspective

Overcominggovernment can be hindered by political opposition and entrenched interests.

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