Our Proper Business
“O, let the sacred obligations of this generation sink deep into our hearts. A great trust has descended to new hands. Let us apply ourselves to the great task now present: the task of preserving what our forbearers gained at such great cost. We can win no laurels in a war for independence. Earlier and worthier hands have gathered them all. Nor are there places for us by the side of Solon, Alfred, and other founders of states. Our fathers have filled them. But there remains to us the great duty of defense and preservation. Our proper business is the advancement of liberty. And so, by the blessing of God, may our country become a vast and splendid monument, not of Oppression and Power and Efficiency, but of Wisdom, of Peace, and of Liberty, upon which the world may gaze with admiration forever.” Daniel Webster’s Bunker Hill Oration
Unrelated somewhat, I was curious to know if you considered Glenn Beck and Rush Limbaugh reliable references for historical books? I saw a book entitled Dreamers and Deceivers and Miracles and Massacres that looked interesting but I am not sure what to think about Mr Beck. What think ye? A worthy read?
ReplyDeleteI do appreciate what both Rush and Glen Beck attempt to do in popularizing the great stories of American history. I've not found their books to be terribly deep or original, but they very ably accomplish their goal of making our heritage more accessible and entertaining.
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