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Children Quote by L. Frank Baum

“Imagination has brought mankind through the Dark Ages to its present state of civilization. Imagination led Columbus to discover America. Imagination led Franklin to discover electricity. Imagination has given us the steam engine, the telephone, the talking-machine and the automobile, for these…” quote by L. Frank Baum
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““Imagination has brought mankind through the Dark Ages to its present state of civilization. Imagination led Columbus to discover America. Imagination led Franklin to discover electricity. Imagination has given us the steam engine, the telephone, the talking-machine and the automobile, for these things had to be dreamed of before they became realities. So I believe that dreams - day dreams, you know, with your eyes wide open and your brain-machinery whizzing - are likely to lead to the betterment of the world. The imaginative child will become the imaginative man or woman most apt to create, to invent, and therefore to foster civilization.””

L. Frank Baum

About This Quote

Source Speech: Commencement Address, University of Southern California, 1930

Imagination drives progress by turning visionary ideas into tangible inventions that shape civilization.

In simple terms: Imagination makes big things happen.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate day‑dreaming and creative thinking.

Themes

creativity innovation progress civilization

Mood

inspirational hopeful

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • education
  • entrepreneurship
  • technology development
  • artistic pursuits

Key Concepts

visionary thinking inventive mindset

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you turn a day‑dream into a concrete project?
  • What resources do you need to realize your vision?
A Different Perspective

Imagination alone cannot overcome practical constraints without resources.

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