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We've done our part. And as I walk off into the city streets, a final word to the men and women of the Reagan revolution, the men and women across America who for eight years did the work that brought America back. My friends: We did it. We weren't just marking time. We made a difference. We made the city stronger. We made the city freer, and we left her in good hands. All in all, not bad, not bad at all. And so, good-bye, God bless you, and God bless the United States of America.

Ronald Reagan#103

PoliticsHistoryLegacyAmericaGratitudeProgress

About this quote

What does it mean?
He reflects on his time in office, claiming significant positive change and offering a final blessing.
In plain terms
We accomplished real work that made America stronger and freer, and now I am leaving it in good hands.
What can you take from it?
Legacy is built on tangible progress and confidence in the future.

Where it applies

  • farewell speech
  • political review
  • historical reflection

Putting it to work

  • evaluate legacy
  • express gratitude

Questions to consider

  • What makes a legacy successful?
  • How do we measure progress?

Another view

It presents a one-sided view of achievements.

More from Ronald Reagan

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  3. I've spoken of the shining city all my political life, but I don't know if I ever quite communicated what I saw when I said it. But in my mind it was a tall pr…

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