Ulysses S Grant Quote If We Are To Have
Introduction
Ulysses S Grant, the 18th President of the United States, once said, "If we are to have another contest in the near future of our national existence, I predict that the dividing line will not be Mason and Dixon's but between patriotism and intelligence on the one side, and superstition, ambition and ignorance on the other." This quote, made during a speech he gave at the dedication of the Soldiers' National Cemetery in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, on November 19, 1863, highlights the importance of patriotism and intelligence in the face of conflict.
The Meaning of the Quote
Grant's quote speaks to the idea that in times of conflict, it is crucial to have a strong sense of patriotism and intelligence. He warns against the dangers of superstition, ambition, and ignorance, which can lead to division and ultimately, the downfall of a nation. The dividing line he refers to is not a physical boundary like the Mason-Dixon line, but rather a moral and intellectual one that separates those who prioritize the greater good of their country from those who are driven by personal ambition and ignorance.
The Historical Context
Grant made this quote during the American Civil War, a time of great turmoil and division in the country. The war was fought between the Union and the Confederacy, with the issue of slavery at the forefront of the conflict. The Battle of Gettysburg, where Grant gave his speech, was a turning point in the war, with the Union emerging victorious. Grant's words were a call to action for the country to come together and prioritize patriotism and intelligence in order to overcome the challenges of the war and move forward as a united nation.
The Relevance Today
Grant's quote is still relevant today, as the United States continues to face challenges that require patriotism and intelligence to overcome. The country is once again facing division, with issues such as race, politics, and economic inequality at the forefront. Grant's words serve as a reminder of the importance of coming together as a nation and prioritizing the greater good over personal ambition and ignorance.
Conclusion
Ulysses S Grant's quote, "If we are to have another contest in the near future of our national existence, I predict that the dividing line will not be Mason and Dixon's but between patriotism and intelligence on the one side, and superstition, ambition and ignorance on the other," highlights the importance of patriotism and intelligence in times of conflict. The quote is still relevant today, serving as a reminder of the importance of coming together as a nation and prioritizing the greater good over personal ambition and ignorance.