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Alive Quote by Ronald Reagan

“The task that has fallen to us as Americans is to move the conscience of the world, to keep alive the hope and dream of freedom. For if we fail or falter, there'll be no place for the world's oppressed to flee to. This is not a role we sought. We preach no manifest destiny. But like the Americans…” quote by Ronald Reagan
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“The task that has fallen to us as Americans is to move the conscience of the world, to keep alive the hope and dream of freedom. For if we fail or falter, there'll be no place for the world's oppressed to flee to. This is not a role we sought. We preach no manifest destiny. But like the Americans who brought a new nation into the world 200 years ago, history has asked much of us in our time. Much we've already given; much more we must be prepared to give.”

Ronald Reagan

About This Quote

Source Speech: Inaugural Address, Ronald Reagan, 1981

America must lead globally in defending freedom, bearing responsibility for the oppressed, despite not seeking this destiny.

In simple terms: America should protect freedom worldwide.

Key Takeaway

Embrace global leadership for liberty.

Themes

freedom leadership responsibility history America

Mood

inspirational patriotic

Type

political motivational

When to use this quote

  • foreign policy
  • human rights advocacy
  • military aid
  • diplomacy

Key Concepts

moral duty geopolitics soft power

Questions to Reflect On

  • What obligations does power entail?
  • Can freedom be imposed?
A Different Perspective

It may ignore the costs and unintended consequences of intervention.

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