Education Quote by George Benjamin West
““I have never yet gotten entirely over the feeling that a Yankee, on account of his peculiar teachings and bringing-up, is far inferior to the better class of Southern people. I do not believe the world ever saw or will ever again see, unless the millennium comes, such high state of civilization and culture and exalted virtue as was the Southern states prior to the war. I have yet to find one Yankee, thought I do not say there are none, who, when the money test is made, will not for his own interest do some small or little thing, and often mean thing, if it is to his advantage to do so. Writing as I now do after the lapse of nearly 40 years (and years do soften, and old age ought to) one may somewhat judge my feeling about the Yankees when the war ended.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Post‑Civil War reflection, 1900s, United States
The speaker believes Southern people were morally and culturally superior to Northerners, especially before the Civil War, and doubts Northerners' integrity when profit is at stake.
In simple terms: South is seen as superior; distrust of Northern motives.
Key Takeaway
Question Southern values, question Northern motives.
Themes
culture
morality
regional bias
Mood
reflective
critical
nostalgic
Type
historical
opinion
cultural
When to use this quote
- Historical analysis
- cultural commentary
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
Southern idealism
economic self‑interest
Questions to Reflect On
- How does regional bias shape historical narratives?
- Can cultural superiority be objectively measured?
A Different Perspective
The view may overlook diversity and progress in both regions.
