American Quote by Howard Jacobson
“'Legality' is a mad phrase to use when it comes to the founding of nations. Australia was founded on illegality. For the Americans to go in and dispossess the American Indians was illegal.”
About This Quote
Founding nations often involve illegal acts, challenging moral legitimacy.
In simple terms: Nation building can involve illegal acts.
Key Takeaway
Question moral foundations of history.
Themes
history
morality
colonialism
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
historical
ethical
When to use this quote
- colonial settlement
- nation founding
- legal justification
Key Concepts
legal ethics
national identity
Questions to Reflect On
- Is illegality always immoral?
- How do we reconcile history with modern values?
A Different Perspective
Legal frameworks evolve; not all illegal acts are immoral.
