The gentleman cannot have forgotten his own sentiment, uttered even on the floor of this House, 'Peaceably if we can, forcibly if we must.'
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Peace is preferred but force is acceptable if necessary to defend principles.
- In plain terms
- Seek peace first but be ready to fight if needed.
- What can you take from it?
- Prefer peace but stand firm when required.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What are your red lines?
- When is force justified?
Another view
Force can escalate conflicts unnecessarily.
More from Henry Clay
If you wish to avoid foreign collision, you had better abandon the ocean.
Permalink to quote #2 An oppressed people are authorized, whenever they can, to rise and break their fetters.
Permalink to quote #4 How often are we forced to charge fortune with partiality towards the unjust!
Permalink to quote #1
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