Skip to content

Ambition Quote by Rutherford B. Hayes

“The best hopes of any community rest upon that class of its gifted young men who are not encumbered with large possessions… I now speak of extensive scholarship and ripe culture in science and art… It is not large possessions, it is large expectations, or rather large hopes, that stimulate the…” quote by Rutherford B. Hayes
Download Open image
“The best hopes of any community rest upon that class of its gifted young men who are not encumbered with large possessions… I now speak of extensive scholarship and ripe culture in science and art… It is not large possessions, it is large expectations, or rather large hopes, that stimulate the ambition of the young.”

Rutherford B. Hayes

About This Quote

Source Speech: 1880 Republican National Convention

He argues that youthful talent, not wealth, drives societal progress, urging high expectations over material possessions.

In simple terms: Young talent fuels hope, not riches.

Key Takeaway

Invest in education and high expectations.

Themes

education hope potential

Mood

optimistic thoughtful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • schools
  • scholarships
  • arts funding
  • community mentorship programs

Key Concepts

human capital social mobility

Questions to Reflect On

  • What can society do to nurture gifted youth?
  • How do expectations shape ambition?
A Different Perspective

Wealth still influences opportunities.

3.3 out of 5 (5 ratings)

More by Rutherford B. Hayes

Explore all 129 Rutherford B. Hayes quotes

More Ambition quotes

Browse all 4,601 Ambition quotes