David Davis Quotes

Powerful David Davis for Daily Growth

About David Davis

David Davis (1835-1904), a prolific American lawyer, politician, and writer, was born on June 6, 1835, in Bloomington, Illinois. He began his legal career by reading law under the tutelage of Abraham Lincoln, a future President of the United States. Davis's life was deeply influenced by Lincoln's principles of honesty, integrity, and commitment to public service. After being admitted to the bar in 1857, Davis quickly established himself as an accomplished attorney. He served in various legal capacities during the American Civil War, including as a colonel in the Illinois militia, a judge advocate for the Union Army, and as a U.S. Marshal. His military experience fueled his interest in politics, leading him to become involved in the Republican Party. In 1868, Davis was elected to the United States House of Representatives, serving until 1877. During this time, he made significant contributions to Reconstruction efforts and championed the rights of African Americans. In 1875, he played a key role in drafting the Civil Rights Act, which outlawed racial discrimination in public accommodations and provided federal protection for voting rights. After leaving Congress, Davis returned to private practice but continued to be active in politics. He served as Secretary of State for Illinois from 1877 to 1879, and later as a U.S. Senator from 1879 until his death on July 23, 1904. As an author, Davis wrote extensively on political issues and constitutional law. His most notable work is "The Rise and Fall of the Confederate Government," published in 1881. This three-volume history offers a comprehensive analysis of the American Civil War and the political leaders who shaped it, including his former mentor, Abraham Lincoln. David Davis's life and works reflect a deep commitment to justice, democracy, and the rule of law. His influence on American politics and literature continues to be felt today.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"The more you can Craig, the less is Craig."

The quote suggests that as a person becomes more skilled or proficient at something (Craig), they effectively diminish their individuality or unique identity in relation to that particular skill or activity. In other words, mastery of a craft tends to blur the lines between the individual and the skill itself, reducing the significance of the person's personal traits and making them appear less distinct or "less Craig." The quote underscores the idea that while expertise is admirable, it can also inadvertently overshadow one's individual identity.


"Brexit means Brexit."

The quote "Brexit means Brexit" by David Davis is a simplistic yet significant statement that encapsulates the UK government's stance during the Brexit negotiations. It was used to assert that the UK would fully exit the European Union, despite the complexities involved, without defining the specifics of what this departure entailed. The ambiguity allowed for various interpretations and debates, reflecting the complexity of the issue as the UK navigated its departure from the EU.


"If we want the European Union to change, we need to leave it and make it want to change."

This quote suggests that for significant changes within the European Union (EU), it may be necessary for a member state to withdraw from the union in order to apply external pressure and influence the EU's desire to reform. The underlying idea is that by demonstrating the consequences of non-change, the EU might be motivated to adapt to accommodate the departing member's concerns or needs. It's important to note that this is a contentious strategy with various potential ramifications for both the leaving state and the EU as a whole.


"I don't think there's any case for having an early election." (This quote became famous for being contradicted by Davis himself later on)

The quote suggests that David Davis, at the time he made this statement, did not believe there was a compelling reason or need to hold an early election. However, as history has shown, his stance changed later, indicating a potential shift in political circumstances or strategy which caused him to contradict his earlier position.


"We are going to have our cake and eat it." (Again, this quote was often used humorously due to its apparent contradiction regarding Brexit)

The quote by David Davis implies a desire for a favorable outcome that seems impossible or contradictory, typically through negotiations or policy-making. In the context of Brexit, it suggests the intent to maintain the benefits (the "cake") of being part of the European Union while also having the ability to exit and make independent decisions ("eating it"). This statement was often used humorously due to the perceived impossibility of such a situation.


If somebody plans to carry out a series of murders... then this is obviously an evil and pre-meditated attack and in that case, there could be a deterrent effect.

- David Davis

Could, Deterrent, Obviously, Case

I haven't done years of diversity training, so sometimes I say things which are probably tactless, and I don't mean to, to be honest, I don't mean to do that.

- David Davis

Training, Sometimes, Which, To Be Honest

I make no bones about it, I'm a product of my upbringing and of the time I was brought up, so I'm not going to pretend not to be.

- David Davis

Product, Going, Brought, Upbringing

The constitution of the United States is a law for rulers and people, equally in war and in peace, and covers with the shield of its protection all classes of men, at all times, and under all circumstances.

- David Davis

United States, Shield, Covers

Morale is at the lowest point since I've been here.

- David Davis

Here, Morale, Been, Lowest

If you're searching for quotes on a different topic, feel free to browse our Topics page or explore a diverse collection of quotes from various Authors to find inspiration.