Army Quote by H. L. Mencken
“The New Deal began, like the Salvation Army, by promising to save humanity. It ended, again like the Salvation Army, by running flop-houses and disturbing the peace.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The New Deal, 1934
The New Deal started with noble promises like the Salvation Army, but later devolved into ineffective, disruptive programs.
In simple terms: Idealistic beginnings can degrade into ineffective actions.
Key Takeaway
Critically assess long‑term outcomes of reforms.
Themes
politics
idealism
disillusionment
Mood
skeptical
critical
Type
political
historical
When to use this quote
- government programs
- social welfare
- economic recovery
- public perception
- political rhetoric
Key Concepts
history
policy analysis
Questions to Reflect On
- What lessons can modern policy learn?
- How do intentions diverge from results?
A Different Perspective
Complex issues may be oversimplified in critique.
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