Lee's Centennial (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1907 edition. Excerpt: ... We shall then consume the natural resources of the continent given us through the sacrifice of past generations; our national life will turn inward rather than outward; we shall lose spiritual touch with mankind; and finally in the selfish struggle for the division of the national spoils, shall go down in stagnation or destruction with the merited contempt of the world. But I am told that this policy of isolation is counselled by Washington in his advice against "entangling alliances." We love the tyranny of phrases when they promote our comfort and convenience.-Washington never used these words; never advised this policy. It would not have been consistent with his exalted manhood; would have negatived his whole record of virile American citizenship, and his defense of right and justice in the infancy of the nation. He did say that the "ordinary affairs" of other countries "were foreign to our concern;" but the great principles of international right and justice are not "ordinary affairs" of other nations. They are the common heritage of all nations, and their violation strikes at the root of civilization, and endangers our own national life. He did say that we should avoid "permanent alliances," but that we should stand ready "to choose peace or war as our interest, guided by justice, shall counsel;" be prepared for our own defense, and make "temporary alliances for extraordinary emergencies." There is nothing in this language which counsels a policy of selfish isolation and national irresponsibility, so foreign to the character and ideals of Washington; so in conflict with his acts and farseeing political wisdom. If, however, we are to take a place in the family of nations in keeping with our national strength; to discharge in full the...