Skip to content
quotesby

A great people has been moved to defend a great nation. Terrorist attacks can shake the foundations of our biggest buildings, but they cannot touch the foundation of America. These acts shattered steel, but they cannot dent the steel of American resolve. America was targeted for attack because we're the brightest beacon for freedom and opportunity in the world. And no one will keep that light from shining. Today, our nation saw evil, the very worst of human nature. And we responded with the best of America - with the daring of our rescue workers, with the caring for strangers and neighbors who came to give blood and help in any way they could.

George W. Bush#59

AmericaNationResilienceCrisisCourage

About this quote

What does it mean?
Despite attacks on physical structures, American resolve and values remain unshaken.
In plain terms
Attacks break buildings but not American spirit.
What can you take from it?
Stay strong when things break.

Where it applies

  • national tragedy
  • emergency response
  • unifying moment

Putting it to work

  • public address
  • community organizing
  • fundraising

Questions to consider

  • What defines national resolve?
  • How do you respond to evil?

Another view

It generalizes complex national reactions into a single resolve.

More from George W. Bush

  1. Dealing with Congress is a matter of give and take. The president doesn't get everything he wants, the Congress doesn't get everything they want. But we're fin…

    Permalink to quote #58
  2. Those in authority should take appropriate precautions to protect our citizens. But we will not allow this enemy to win the war by changing our way of life or …

    Permalink to quote #60
  3. I know what I believe. I will continue to articulate what I believe and what I believe- I believe what I believe is right.

    Permalink to quote #57

Related quotes

  1. We will do precisely what the British nation has done all through its history when it had its back to the wall - turn round and fight for the things it believe…

    John MajorJohn Major quote #14
  2. The resolve of our great nation is being tested. But make no mistake: We will show the world that we will pass this test. God bless.

    George W. BushGeorge W. Bush quote #395
  3. I am not afraid of storms, for I am learning how to sail my ship.

    Louisa May AlcottLouisa May Alcott quote #1