George Allen, Sr. Quotes

Powerful George Allen, Sr. for Daily Growth

About George Allen, Sr.

George Allen, Sr., (December 12, 1908 – March 30, 2011), was an influential American politician, attorney, and businessman who made significant contributions to Virginia politics for over six decades. Born in Richmond, Virginia, Allen was the son of a prominent lawyer. He attended the University of Virginia, where he earned a Bachelor's degree in Commerce and a law degree. After graduating, he practiced law in Charlottesville before moving back to his hometown of Richmond to join his father's law firm. Allen's political career began in 1950 when he was elected to the Virginia House of Delegates, serving until 1962. He then moved on to the Virginia State Senate, where he served from 1962 to 1970. During his tenure, Allen was a strong advocate for conservative causes and played a significant role in the desegregation of Virginia's public schools. In 1970, Allen was elected as Virginia's Attorney General, a position he held until 1978. As Attorney General, he focused on law enforcement issues and worked to combat organized crime. In 1977, he ran for governor but lost to Mills Godwin. Allen's most notable achievement came in 1979 when he was elected as the Governor of Virginia. During his term, he focused on economic development, education, and criminal justice reform. One of his most significant accomplishments was the passage of the Landmark Legislation for Mental Health Services, which provided funding for mental health services across the state. After leaving office in 1982, Allen returned to private law practice but remained active in politics. He was a strong supporter of his son, George Allen, Jr., who followed in his footsteps and became a prominent politician in Virginia. George Allen, Sr.'s legacy lives on as a champion of conservative causes and a key figure in the political history of Virginia. Some notable quotes by Allen include, "We're not going to do something just because it's fashionable or popular if it's wrong," and "Education is our most important investment."

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Character is the ability to carry out a good resolution long after the excitement of the moment has passed."

George Allen, Sr.'s quote emphasizes the importance of perseverance in upholding one's character. Character is demonstrated not only during times of excitement or motivation but also when faced with challenges, distractions, or even when enthusiasm wanes. It implies that a strong character is shown through the capacity to stick to noble resolutions, even when the initial passion or urgency has faded, thereby underlining the significance of consistency and follow-through in defining one's moral fiber.


"A great leader's courage to stand for his convictions is the surest sign of his strength."

This quote by George Allen, Sr. emphasizes that a true leader demonstrates strength not only through physical or material capabilities but more importantly, through the courage to uphold their beliefs and convictions. A great leader stands firm in their values, even when faced with adversity or opposition, thus showing resilience and unwavering commitment.


"The strength of a nation derives from the integrity of the home, and public education is the foundation of the home."

This quote by George Allen, Sr. suggests that the strength and well-being of a nation are rooted in the moral values and integrity instilled within individual households (homes). He further posits that the cornerstone for these family values is education, specifically public education. In essence, he is implying that a strong educational foundation at home and in schools forms the bedrock of a prosperous society, as it shapes the character and ethics of future generations.


"In any organization, there are only three types of people: those who make things happen, those who watch things happen, and those who wonder what happened."

George Allen, Sr.'s quote highlights the dynamic nature of an organization, dividing its members into three categories based on their roles in driving change and progress. The first group, "those who make things happen," are active agents of change who initiate actions, create ideas, and drive projects forward. The second group, "those who watch things happen," observe the changes happening around them but may not actively contribute to them. Lastly, "those who wonder what happened" are the ones left out or unaware of the events taking place in the organization. In essence, the quote underscores the importance of taking action and making a difference in one's workplace to ensure personal growth and the success of the organization.


"The quality of a person's life is in direct proportion to their commitment to excellence, regardless of their chosen field of endeavor."

This quote emphasizes that an individual's quality of life is directly linked to their dedication towards achieving excellence, irrespective of the field or profession they are involved in. It suggests that striving for excellence consistently, regardless of the chosen path, can significantly improve one's life and success. In essence, George Allen, Sr. is advocating a commitment to personal growth, continuous improvement, and high standards across all areas of life.


One of the most difficult things everyone has to learn is that for your entire life you must keep fighting and adjusting if you hope to survive. No matter who you are or what your position is you must keep fighting for whatever it is you desire to achieve.

- George Allen, Sr.

Fighting, Achieve, Your, Entire

Work hard, stay positive, and get up early. It's the best part of the day.

- George Allen, Sr.

Positive, Work, Work Hard, Early

The street to obscurity is paved with athletes who can perform great feats before friendly crowds.

- George Allen, Sr.

Street, Friendly, Before, Obscurity

Every time you win, you're reborn; when you lose, you die a little.

- George Allen, Sr.

Die, Lose, Reborn, Every Time

The tougher the job, the greater the reward.

- George Allen, Sr.

Job, Reward, Tougher, Greater

Leisure time is that five or six hours when you sleep at night.

- George Allen, Sr.

Sleep, Hours, Six, Leisure

If you want to catch more fish, use more hooks.

- George Allen, Sr.

Want, More, Use, Catch

People of mediocre ability sometimes achieve outstanding success because they don't know when to quit. Most men succeed because they are determined to.

- George Allen, Sr.

People, Achieve, Outstanding, Determined

The achiever is the only individual who is truly alive.

- George Allen, Sr.

Alive, Only, Individual, Achiever

Every day you waste is one you can never make up.

- George Allen, Sr.

Every Day, Never, Waste, Make Up

Success is what you do with your ability. It's how you use your talent.

- George Allen, Sr.

Success, Success Is, How, Ability

Each of us has been put on earth with the ability to do something well. We cheat ourselves and the world if we don't use that ability as best we can.

- George Allen, Sr.

Wisdom, Been, Use, Ability

Winning is the science of being totally prepared.

- George Allen, Sr.

Science, Winning, Prepared, Totally

When we get to the future, I'll determine the future.

- George Allen, Sr.

Future, Get, Determine

Try not to do too many things at once. Know what you want, the number one thing today and tomorrow. Persevere and get it done.

- George Allen, Sr.

Want, Persevere, One Thing, Number

Forget the past - the future will give you plenty to worry about.

- George Allen, Sr.

Moving On, Worry, Give, You

Persevere and get it done.

- George Allen, Sr.

Done, Get, Persevere

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