America Quote by Jeremiah O'Donovan Rossa
“The one enemy in the world that America has is England. But then, England is the great land of Christian civilization, and it may not be a thing to be much wondered at that our Americans whom we send to represent us in London become in a short time somewhat civilized, and learn to love those who hate them, bless those that curse them, and do good to those that persecute and calumniate them.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Irish Nationalist Address, 1880s, Ireland
The quote sat America's paradoxical stance toward England, acknowledging both rivalry and admiration, and urging Americans to respond with compassion even to adversaries.
In simple terms: America sees England as both foe and cultural model, urging compassionate response.
Key Takeaway
Embrace empathy toward perceived enemies.
Themes
politics
nationalism
culture
compassion
contradiction
Mood
reflective
hopeful
critical
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- diplomatic negotiations
- cross‑cultural exchanges
- conflict resolution
- public discourse
Key Concepts
colonial legacy
moral paradox
identity
soft power
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we love those who oppose us?
- What risks arise from blind admiration?
A Different Perspective
May idealizing a rival overlook genuine grievances.
![“I'll smoke, I'll cough, I'll get the tumors, I'll die, deal? Thank you America. [salutes]” quote by Bill Hicks](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/3d2/bill-hicks-970_america_i-ll-smoke-i-ll-cough-i-ll-get-the-tumor_655.jpg)
