We have to recognize that the reason that the global order that we've enjoyed and almost take for granted over the last several years exists is that after World War II, the United States and its allies tried to build an antidote to what they had seen between World War I and World War II. There, they'd seen protectionism, beggar-thy-neighbor trading policies, so they said, we'll build an open international economy. And they did that.

I was very proud and grateful to be the first African-American woman in the position. I thought it said a lot about our country that we had back-to-back African-American Secretaries of State, Colin Powell and then me. I also thought it said a lot about President Bush that he didn't see limits on the highest ranking diplomat in terms of color. It's a hard job, but really the best one in government.

Diplomacy, if properly practiced, is not just talking for the sake of talking.

[I'm] very fortunate and blessed person who still has a lot of living to do.

My mom was a teacher - I have the greatest respect for the profession - we need great teachers - not poor or mediocre ones.

We [USA] need to deal with our problems here at home if we're going to be strong enough to lead abroad.

I really wish that we had passed a comprehensive immigration bill because that would've really helped our country.