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"The Business of America is Business"?
This is the most famous misquote of Calvin Coolidge's. Where did historians get this quote and why have they used it in textbooks to get it so well known?
The real statement comes from a speech by Calvin Coolidge called "The Press Under a Free Government" which was given before the American Society of Newspaper Editors in Washington, D.C. on January 17, 1925. The quote is really: "After all, the chief business of the American people is business." However, Coolidge goes on to say that, "Of course the accumulation of wealth cannot be justified as the chief end of existence."
He discusses journalism and the thought that the business interests of newspaper owners should not taint reporting.
He continues, "American newspapers have seemed to me to be particularly representative of this practical idealism of our people."
His last paragraph in the speech shows what he really believes motivate Americans:
"We make no concealment of the fact that we want wealth, but there are many other things that we want very much more. We want peace and honor, and that charity which is so strong an element of all civilization. The chief ideal of the American people is idealism. I cannot repeat too often that America is a nation of idealists. That is the only motive to which they ever give any strong and lasting reaction."
Really, how far have we wandered from the true path of America - when the government sees the people of the United States as enemies rather than resources?
Sounds like Mr. Coolidge had a much firmer grip on the important matters. Perhaps the powers that be might take a lesson from those who stand out in history.
Lastly, Henry Kissinger said: "If history teaches us anything it is that there can be no peace without equilibrium and no justice without restraint."
Hopefully one day justice will truly be served!
Kirsten loves getting letters, as do all prison and jail inmates. If you'd care to write her, even a brief note, here's the current address:
KIRSTEN ERKFRITZ #58276-065
Federal Medical Center Carswell
PO Box 27066
J Street Bldg 3000
Fort Worth, TX 76127
Here's some tips for writing (click here)
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