We cannot reform the world.... Uncle Sugar is as dangerous a role for us to play as Uncle Shylock.

Our progress as a nation can be no swifter than our progress in education. Our requirements for world leadership, our hopes for economic growth, and the demands of citizenship itself in an era such as this all require the maximum development of every young American's capacity. The human mind is our fundamental resource.

This nation was founded by men of many nations and backgrounds. It was founded on the principle that all men are created equal, and that the rights of every man are diminished when the rights of one man are threatened ... It ought to to be possible, in short, for every American to enjoy the privileges of being American without regard to his race or his color.

What's the use of being Irish if the world doesn't break your heart?

... the Athenian lawmaker Solon decreed it a crime for any citizen to shrink from controversy.

The very word 'secrecy' is repugnant in a free and open society. ... There is little value in ensuring the survival of our nation if our traditions do not survive with it.

Those who foolishly sought power by riding the back of the tiger ended up inside