Frank Hague Quotes

Powerful Frank Hague for Daily Growth

About Frank Hague

Frank Hague (1890-1956), an influential American politician and four-term Mayor of Jersey City, New Jersey, is remembered not only for his political career but also for his eloquent quotes that reflect his strong character and leadership style. Born on August 27, 1890, in Jersey City, Hague was the son of Irish immigrants. He attended St. Peter's College and Rutgers University Law School before starting his legal practice. In 1917, Hague was elected to the Jersey City Board of Education, marking the beginning of his political career. Hague's political rise was remarkable. Elected Mayor of Jersey City in 1917 at the age of 27, he served as Mayor for an unprecedented 31 years, from 1917 to 1947 and again from 1949 to 1956. During his tenure, Hague implemented significant reforms, improving the city's infrastructure, establishing public housing projects, and creating jobs. Hague is often associated with political machine politics, a term used to describe the complex network of patronage, influence, and political alliances that he masterfully navigated. His quotes reflect his firm belief in the power of such networks: "Politics is not a game. It's an earnest endeavor to make a better world for ourselves and our posterity." One of Hague's most significant contributions was the creation of Lincoln Park, a sprawling urban park that serves as a recreational hub for Jersey City residents. His influence extended beyond his city, as he served as the President of the National League of Cities from 1928 to 1929 and was a delegate to the Democratic National Convention seven times. Frank Hague passed away in office on September 9, 1956. His legacy lives on not only through the significant changes he brought to Jersey City but also through his eloquent quotes that continue to inspire leaders today: "I am not a dictator, I am a leader."

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"There is always an easy solution to every human problem - neat, plausible and wrong."

This quote by Frank Hague suggests that when faced with human problems, people often seek simple or appealing solutions, unaware that they are inaccurate or ineffective. It implies a warning against hasty decision-making based on oversimplified perspectives, emphasizing the importance of careful analysis and critical thinking to find the right solution.


"You can't be first in a hundred-yard dash if you start a hundred yards behind."

This quote emphasizes the importance of starting with an advantage or early progress to achieve success, especially when competing against others. In a 100-meter race, if one competitor is already 100 meters behind at the start, they have no chance of winning, no matter how fast they run after that point. The same principle applies in any endeavor where success depends on competition or progress over time. To reach the finish line first, one must start with some advantage or lead to give themselves a fighting chance at victory.


"I have seen the future, and it is difficult."

This quote by Frank Hague suggests a perspective that the future is not an easy or straightforward concept to grasp or navigate. It implies that the complexities and challenges of the future require careful consideration and effort to understand and overcome. The quote may serve as a reminder that progress, while desirable, often demands hard work and resilience.


"The trouble with politics is that there are so many goddamned few of us who know anything about it."

This quote by Frank Hague highlights a common sentiment that political decision-making often lacks the input and expertise of a significant portion of the informed public. The quote suggests a gap between those who hold positions of political power, and the citizenry they represent. It implies a concern about the potential for uninformed or biased decisions to be made in the political sphere, which can have profound effects on society as a whole.


"Politics is not a game. It's an earnest endeavor to make a better world for our children."

This quote by Frank Hague emphasizes that politics should not be treated as a game or competition, but as a serious pursuit aimed at improving society and creating a better future for the next generation. It highlights the importance of considering the long-term well-being and development of children when making political decisions. By adopting this mindset, we can strive to make informed, compassionate, and impactful choices that prioritize the greater good over personal gain or short-term interests.


As long as I am mayor of this city the great industries are secure.

- Frank Hague

I Am, City, Mayor, Industries

You hear about constitutional rights, free speech and the free press. Every time I hear these words I say to myself, 'That man is a Red, that man is a Communist!' You never hear a real American talk like that.

- Frank Hague

American, Communist, About, Free Press

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