Able Quote by Woodrow Wilson
“I am the friend of peace and mean to preserve it for America so long as I am able. . . . No course of my choosing or of their (nations at war) will lead to war. War can come only by the wilful acts and aggressions of others.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Address to the Nation on War Policy, 1917
War is not a choice but a reaction to others’ aggression; peace must be defended, not initiated.
In simple terms: War comes from others’ aggression.
Defend peace, avoid aggression.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- foreign policy
- military readiness
- international negotiations
- public discourse
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can nations prevent being drawn into others’ wars?
- What diplomatic tools are most effective?
Aggression may be provoked unintentionally.