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Henry Steele Commager Quotes

Powerful Henry Steele Commager for Daily Growth

About Henry Steele Commager

Henry Steele Commager (July 1, 1902 – March 2, 1998) was an eminent American historian, educator, and public intellectual renowned for his contributions to the study of American history. Born in New York City, Commager attended Columbia University, where he earned a bachelor's degree in 1923. He later returned to Columbia as a faculty member after completing his Ph.D. at Harvard University in 1931. Commager's academic career spanned over six decades, during which he taught at numerous prestigious institutions including Rutgers, Swarthmore College, and the City College of New York. Known for his eloquent and engaging teaching style, Commager inspired generations of students with his passion for American history. His work encompassed a wide range of topics, but he is best known for his books on American democracy, civics, and constitutional history. Notable works include "The American Mind" (1950), "Documents of American History" (1938-1972), and "The Constitution of the United States of America: A Transcription with Analysis and Commentary" (1963). Commager was also a prominent public intellectual, contributing to numerous newspapers and magazines. He appeared frequently on television shows, using his platform to promote civic education and engage with contemporary issues. In 1947, he co-founded "The American Heritage" magazine, serving as its editor for many years. Throughout his life, Commager was deeply influenced by the ideals of the American Revolution and the United States Constitution. His work sought to instill a sense of civic responsibility and patriotism in his students and readers. In recognition of his contributions to education and history, he received numerous awards, including the National Humanities Medal in 1986. Henry Steele Commager's legacy continues to influence scholars and students alike, as his works remain fundamental reading for those studying American history and civics.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"America is great because America is good."

This quote suggests that the strength and greatness of America lies in its moral character and ethical values, rather than military or economic might alone. It implies that America's good qualities - such as freedom, justice, equality, and respect for human rights - have contributed significantly to its standing as a powerful and respected nation on the world stage. In essence, Commager is saying that America's greatness comes from its adherence to the principles of goodness.

"The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character - that is the goal of true education."

This quote emphasizes two key aspects of effective education: critical thinking and character development. Critical thinking refers to the ability to analyze and evaluate information, make informed judgments, and solve problems independently. The emphasis on intensive thinking suggests a deep and thorough approach to learning that goes beyond mere memorization. Education should not only impart knowledge but also foster the skills necessary for students to process that knowledge in meaningful ways. The term "character" refers to moral qualities such as honesty, respect, empathy, and resilience. By incorporating character development into education, we are preparing students not just to excel academically, but also to become responsible, ethical, and compassionate members of society. True education aims for a harmonious balance between intelligence and character, equipping individuals with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to lead fulfilling lives and contribute positively to their communities.

"Democracy is not a spectator sport."

This quote, attributed to Henry Steele Commager, emphasizes that democracy requires active participation from its citizens for it to thrive. Simply observing or passively supporting democracy isn't enough; democracy is a system where the people have the power, and exercising that power through voting, civic engagement, and informed discourse are essential for its preservation and success.

"A nation of sheep will beget a government of wolves."

This quote suggests that if a population is complacent, lacking in critical thought, and unwilling to hold those in power accountable, they may find themselves under the control of corrupt or unscrupulous leaders, who, much like wolves among a flock of sheep, will exploit their vulnerability for personal gain. It serves as a caution against apathy and encourages active citizenship.

"The essence of America, that which really unites us, is not ethnicity, or nationality, or religion - it is an idea - and what an idea it is: That you can come from humble circumstances and do great things."

Henry Steele Commager's quote emphasizes the core American value of meritocracy and equal opportunity. He suggests that the unifying factor among Americans isn't shared ancestry, nationality, or faith, but rather a belief in individual potential. This idea is encapsulated in the notion that, regardless of one's humble beginnings, they can achieve greatness in America – a testament to the American Dream.

The fact is that censorship always defeats its own purpose, for it creates, in the end, the kind of society that is incapable of exercising real discretion.

- Henry Steele Commager

Fact, Always, Discretion, Incapable

Censorship always defeats it own purpose, for it creates in the end the kind of society that is incapable of exercising real discretion.

- Henry Steele Commager

Purpose, Always, Discretion, Incapable

It's awfully hard to be the son of a great man and also of a half-crazy woman.

- Henry Steele Commager

Son, Woman, Also, Great Man

Men in authority will always think that criticism of their policies is dangerous. They will always equate their policies with patriotism, and find criticism subversive.

- Henry Steele Commager

Think, Always, Equate, Criticism

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