Words have the power to inspire, unite, and bring about change. Throughout American history, presidents have used their speeches to rally the nation during times of war, crisis, and great change. From Abraham Lincoln's stirring call for "a new birth of freedom" to Franklin D. Roosevelt's declaration that "the only thing we have to fear is fear itself," the words of our leaders have resonated with the American people and become iconic symbols of hope, courage, and determination. In this article, we will explore 15 of the most powerful and enduring presidential quotes that continue to inspire us to this day.
We should not look back unless it is to derive useful lessons from past errors, and for the purpose of profiting by dearly bought experience.
- George WashingtonChange will not come if we wait for some other person or some other time. We are the ones we've been waiting for. We are the change that we seek.
- Barack ObamaYou are not here merely to make a living. You are here in order to enable the world to live more amply, with greater vision, with a finer spirit of hope and achievement. You are here to enrich the world, and you impoverish yourself if you forget the errand.
- Woodrow WilsonUse power to help people. For we are given power not to advance our own purposes nor to make a great show in the world, nor a name. There is but one just use of power and it is to serve people.
- George W. BushIt is easier to do a job right than to explain why you didn't.
- Martin Van BurenPatience and perseverance have a magical effect before which difficulties disappear and obstacles vanish.
- John Quincy AdamsIf your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.
- John Quincy AdamsA house divided against itself cannot stand.
- Abraham LincolnDo what you can, with what you have, where you are.
- Theodore RooseveltIf you're walking down the right path and you're willing to keep walking, eventually you'll make progress.
- Barack ObamaBelieve you can and you're halfway there.
- Theodore RooseveltIt is easier to do a job right than to explain why you didn't.
- Martin Van BurenWords without actions are the assassins of idealism.
- Herbert HooverGreat lives never go out; they go on.
- Benjamin HarrisonI'm a slow walker, but I never walk back.
- Abraham Lincoln