Illiteracy must be banished from the land if we shall attain that high destiny as the foremost of the enlightened nations of the world which, under Providence, we ought to achieve.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Eliminating illiteracy is presented as essential for the nation to achieve its potential among enlightened countries.
- In plain terms
- We must end illiteracy to become a leading nation.
- What can you take from it?
- Education is foundational to national progress.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What defines an enlightened nation?
- Is literacy enough for progress?
Another view
Focus on literacy may ignore other barriers to progress like inequality.
More from William McKinley
I have never been in doubt since I was old enough to think intelligently that I would someday be made President.
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