Skip to content

Africa Quote by Winston Churchill

“How dreadful are the curses which Mohammedanism lays on its votaries! Besides the fanatical frenzy, which is as dangerous in a man as hydrophobia in a dog, there is this fearful fatalistic apathy. The effects are apparent in many countries. Improvident habits, slovenly systems of agriculture…” quote by Winston Churchill
Download Open image
““How dreadful are the curses which Mohammedanism lays on its votaries! Besides the fanatical frenzy, which is as dangerous in a man as hydrophobia in a dog, there is this fearful fatalistic apathy. The effects are apparent in many countries. Improvident habits, slovenly systems of agriculture, sluggish methods of commerce, and insecurity of property exist wherever the followers of the Prophet rule or live. A degraded sensualism deprives this life of its grace and refinement; the next of its dignity and sanctity. The fact that in Mohammedan law every woman must belong to some man as his absolute property – either as a child, a wife, or a concubine – must delay the final extinction of slavery until the faith of Islam has ceased to be a great power among men. Thousands become the brave and loyal soldiers of the faith: all know how to die but the influence of the religion paralyses the social development of those who follow it. No stronger retrograde force exists in the world. Far from being moribund, Mohammedanism is a militant and proselytizing faith. It has already spread throughout Central Africa, raising fearless warriors at every step; and were it not that Christianity is sheltered in the strong arms of science, the science against which it had vainly struggled, the civilisation of modern Europe might fall, as fell the civilisation of ancient Rome.””

Winston Churchill

About This Quote

Source Speech: House of Commons Debate, 1943

Islamic law's treatment of women and perceived social stagnation are criticized as hindering progress.

In simple terms: Criticizes Islam for oppression and backwardness.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and address gender inequality.

Themes

religion gender colonialism politics civilization

Mood

critical controversial historical

Type

political propaganda

When to use this quote

  • women's rights advocacy
  • policy reform
  • interfaith dialogue
  • educational programs
  • human rights monitoring

Key Concepts

feminism postcolonial critique social development

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we support reform without cultural imperialism?
  • What role can education play in empowerment?
A Different Perspective

Generalizations overlook diversity within Muslim societies.

4.4 out of 5 (9 ratings)

More by Winston Churchill

Explore all 1,366 Winston Churchill quotes

More Africa quotes

Browse all 1,665 Africa quotes