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John Connally Quotes

Powerful John Connally for Daily Growth

About John Connally

John Connally (May 27, 1917 – June 15, 1993) was an American politician, diplomat, and businessman who served as the 38th Governor of Texas from 1963 to 1969 and later as the United States Secretary of the Treasury under President Richard Nixon. Born in Floresville, Texas, Connally grew up in a politically active family, with his father, John Bailey Connally Sr., serving as a Democratic member of the U.S. House of Representatives for 20 years. Connally attended the University of Texas at Austin, where he was a member of the Phi Delta Alpha fraternity and the Texas Cowboys, a group of student volunteers who served as ushers during football games. After graduating in 1938, Connally worked for his father before enlisting in the United States Army Air Forces in 1942, where he served as a pilot during World War II. Connally entered politics after the war, serving in various positions under Texas Governor Allan Shivers before being elected Attorney General of Texas in 1953. He was later appointed to the U.S. Senate in 1957 and won election to a full term in 1958. Connally's life took a dramatic turn on November 22, 1963, when he was serving as Governor of Texas during President John F. Kennedy's visit to Dallas. In the assassination that followed, Connally was seriously wounded but survived. The incident had a profound impact on Connally and his family, and it marked a turning point in his political career. In 1968, Connally was elected Governor of Texas for a third term, but he resigned in 1969 to become the Secretary of the Treasury under President Nixon. He later served as the U.S. Ambassador to France from 1971 to 1975 and as the Chairman of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation from 1975 to 1979. Connally's major works include his memoir "In History's Shadow: From Dallas to Watergate" and his contributions to the Kennedy assassination records, which were released in 2017. Despite his political controversies, Connally was remembered for his charisma, quick wit, and ability to connect with people from all walks of life.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Vietnam is just a jungle gym for big powers to work off their rivalries."

This quote by John Connally suggests that the Vietnam War, rather than being about ideological differences or regional conflicts, was primarily used as a platform for major global powers (presumably the United States and Soviet Union) to demonstrate their dominance and resolve their geopolitical rivalries. In simpler terms, it implies that Vietnam served as a battleground for superpowers to assert their influence and maintain their power balance.

"It's not whether you get knocked down, it's whether you get back up."

This quote emphasizes resilience and determination in the face of adversity. It suggests that setbacks, failures, or "knockdowns" are inevitable in life; however, what truly matters is one's ability to rise from such hardships and continue moving forward. The strength lies not only in surviving but also in getting back up and continuing the journey. This quote inspires us to keep pushing forward no matter how many times we fall, reminding us that our capacity for perseverance and growth defines our true character.

"The greatest lesson in life is to know that even fools are right sometimes."

This quote emphasizes the importance of humility and open-mindedness, suggesting that it's essential to recognize that everyone, regardless of their intelligence or wisdom, can occasionally be correct. Sometimes, even those we consider 'fools' may hold a valid point or make a correct decision, reminding us not to be too arrogant or dismissive towards others. It encourages us to listen, learn, and respect the perspectives of all people, as we never know when their insights might prove valuable.

"I don't think Nixon understands the word 'defeat.'"

The quote implies that John Connally, a former U.S. governor, believed Richard Nixon lacked comprehension of the concept of "defeat." This suggests Nixon might have been overly optimistic or stubborn in his approach to certain situations, potentially unwilling to accept failure or adversity as an option.

"If I were going to attack the United States, I would do it in Texas."

This quote by John Connally suggests that Texas, due to its strategic geographical location, economic power, and independence, could be a viable target for an adversary seeking to undermine the United States. It underscores the importance of this state as a critical component in America's national security and prosperity.

In the early sixties, we were strong, we were virulent.

- John Connally

Strong, Early, Were, Sixties

When you're out of office, you can be a statesman.

- John Connally

Office, You, Out, Statesman

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