Acquiescence Quote by Grover Cleveland
“The best results in the operation of a government wherein every citizen has a share largely depend upon a proper limitation of the purely partisan zeal and effort and a correct appreciation of the time when the heat of the partisan should be merged in the patriotism of the citizen. ... At this hour the animosities of political strife, the bitterness of partisan defeat, and the exultation of partisan triumph should be supplanted by an ungrudging acquiescence in the popular will and a sober, conscientious concern for the general weal. ... Public extravagance begets extravagance among the people.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Address to the American People, 1885
Good governance requires limiting partisan zeal and merging it with patriotism, fostering humility and concern for the common good.
In simple terms: Limit partisanship, prioritize patriotism and common welfare.
Key Takeaway
Balance party loyalty with national interest.
Themes
politics
citizenship
moderation
public service
humility
Mood
thoughtful
conciliatory
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- legislative debates
- campaigns
- community meetings
- policy discussions
Key Concepts
civic virtue
collective responsibility
political temperance
Questions to Reflect On
- How can citizens encourage leaders to prioritize the common good?
- What mechanisms reduce partisan excess?
A Different Perspective
Partisan loyalty can be so strong it resists integration into broader patriotism.
![“[The purpose of a written constitution is] to bind up the several branches of government by certain laws, which, when they transgress, their acts shall become nullities; to render unnecessary an appeal to the people, or in other words a rebellion, on every infraction of their rights, on the peril…” quote by Thomas Jefferson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/867/thomas-jefferson-43_acquiescence_the-purpose-of-a-written-constitution-is_244689.jpg)
