Country Quote by Yusuf al-Qaradawi
“The Iraqis have a country that inherited cultures thousands of years old while the Americans have a culture only two hundred years old. Two hundred years will teach thousands of years!? Oh Americans, leave Iraq for its people.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Public address, 2003, Yusuf al‑Qaradawi
The quote contrasts the deep, ancient cultural heritage of Iraq with the relatively recent American culture, urging respect for Iraq’s own people.
In simple terms: Ancient Iraq vs. young America; respect locals.
Key Takeaway
Respect Iraq’s heritage, avoid imposing.
Themes
culture
heritage
respect
colonialism
Mood
reflective
critical
cautious
Type
political
historical
ethical
When to use this quote
- foreign policy
- international aid
- media narratives
- education programs
Key Concepts
civilizational depth
cultural imperialism
Questions to Reflect On
- How can foreign powers support without overriding local culture?
- What responsibilities do long‑standing cultures have toward newcomers?
A Different Perspective
Oversimplifies complex histories and ignores internal Iraqi diversity.
![“Throughout history, Allah has imposed upon the [Jews] people who would punish them for their corruption. The last punishment was carried out by Hitler. By means of all the things he did to them - even though they exaggerated this issue - he managed to put them in their place. This was divine…” quote by Yusuf al-Qaradawi](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/325/yusuf-al-qaradawi-27556_believer_throughout-history-allah-has-imposed-upo_1325185.jpg)
![“That country [Carthage] was rapidly sinking into the state of barbarism from whence it had been raised by the Phoenician colonies and Roman laws; and every step of intestine discord was marked by some deplorable victory of savage man over civilized society.” quote by Edward Gibbon](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/70c/edward-gibbon-710_barbarism_that-country-carthage-was-rapidly-sinkin_393.jpg)
