John George Nicolay Quotes

Powerful John George Nicolay for Daily Growth

About John George Nicolay

John George Nicolay (1832-1901) was an influential American journalist, diplomat, and personal secretary to Abraham Lincoln during his presidency. Born on March 4, 1832, in Cincinnati, Ohio, Nicolay showed early promise in academics and literature, earning a law degree from the University of Cincinnati at age 20. However, he abandoned law practice for journalism and embarked on a writing career that would eventually lead him to Lincoln. Nicolay's journalistic work took him to Washington D.C., where he covered Congress and the White House for the New York Tribune. It was here that Nicolay's path crossed with Abraham Lincoln, whom he met in 1860 while covering Lincoln's election campaign. Impressed by Nicolay's intellect and dedication, Lincoln invited him to serve as his private secretary after his inauguration. In this role, Nicolay played a vital part in shaping the Lincoln administration's policies, serving as a conduit between Lincoln and key members of his cabinet, and helping draft many of Lincoln's speeches. After Lincoln's assassination in 1865, Nicolay turned his attention to memorializing his former boss, compiling and editing "Abraham Lincoln: A History" (1890), a comprehensive 12-volume set that remains one of the most authoritative biographies of Lincoln. Nicolay's contributions to American history extend beyond his work with Lincoln. He served as U.S. minister to Saxony and Sweden from 1873 to 1879, negotiating treaties and fostering diplomatic relations between the United States and these European nations. Upon his return to America, Nicolay remained active in politics and journalism until his death on October 20, 1901. His legacy as a dedicated public servant, skilled writer, and close confidant to one of history's most influential figures continues to resonate today.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Patience and time do more than strength or passion."

This quote highlights that persistence and patience, coupled with the passage of time, are powerful forces that can achieve results even beyond the immediate impact of raw strength or intense emotion. It suggests that while passion and energy are crucial in many endeavors, they may not be sufficient on their own. Instead, a strategic approach, including giving things enough time to develop and being patient through challenges, can ultimately lead to success.

"To be prepared for war is one of the most effectual means of preserving peace."

This quote by John George Nicolay suggests that being well-prepared for potential conflict or war can serve as an effective deterrent to actual conflicts, thereby promoting peace. The underlying idea is that a strong defense and readiness to protect oneself discourages aggression from others, fostering a climate of stability and tranquility. This notion is often applied in diplomacy and international relations where maintaining military preparedness can be seen as a means of preserving the peace.

"The history of a nation's navy is forever the history of the nation itself."

This quote by J.G. Nicolay underscores the integral role navies play in shaping and reflecting national identity, values, and power. A nation's naval history mirrors its achievements, struggles, and ambitions over time, revealing crucial aspects of its cultural, political, and economic evolution. Naval victories, technological advancements, and strategic decisions demonstrate a nation's prowess on the world stage, while naval defeats or challenges reflect internal strengths and weaknesses. Therefore, understanding a country's naval history offers valuable insights into its past, present, and future trajectory.

"The true soldier fights not because he hates what is in front of him, but because he loves what is behind him."

This quote underscores the idea that a genuine soldier doesn't fight out of hate or fear for their enemy, but rather from a deep love and commitment to the values, principles, and people they represent. In essence, they are willing to protect what they cherish, not destroy what they despise. It highlights the selflessness and dedication of those who serve in defense of their communities, countries, or ideals.

"Every great reform in its time was a dangerous heresy."

This quote suggests that significant changes or "great reforms" in society, politics, or any field often initially face opposition, being considered radical or unconventional, which can make them seem like "dangerous heresies." However, over time, these changes, once accepted and implemented, become the norm and are often regarded as progressive. In other words, the path to progress is often met with resistance, but it's essential not to dismiss innovative ideas or reforms outright because they may prove to be groundbreaking in the future.

It turned out in the long run that Lincoln's credit and the popular confidence that supported it were as valuable both to his creditors and himself as if the sums which stood over his signature had been gold coin in a solvent bank.

- John George Nicolay

Signature, Been, Turned, Creditors

Nobody understood better than Mr. Lincoln the obvious truth that in politics it does not suffice merely to nominate candidates. Something must also be done to elect them.

- John George Nicolay

Politics, Mr, Suffice, Understood

The meetings of the legislature at Springfield then first brought together that splendid group of young men of genius whose phenomenal careers and distinguished services have given Illinois fame in the history of the nation.

- John George Nicolay

Young, Given, Brought, Phenomenal

The death of Mrs. Lincoln was a serious loss to her husband and children. Abraham's sister Sarah was only eleven years old, and the tasks and cares of the little household were altogether too heavy for her years and experience.

- John George Nicolay

Death, Old, Cares, Tasks

Lincoln's removal from New Salem to Springfield and his entrance into a law partnership with Major John T. Stuart begin a distinctively new period in his career.

- John George Nicolay

Career, New, Period, Stuart

Lincoln's stature and strength, his intelligence and ambition - in short, all the elements which gave him popularity among men in New Salem, rendered him equally attractive to the fair sex of that village.

- John George Nicolay

New, Attractive, Which, Stature

While Lincoln thus became a lawyer, he did not cease to remain a politician.

- John George Nicolay

Cease, Became, Thus, Lawyer

Very few men are fortunate enough to gain distinction during their first term in Congress.

- John George Nicolay

Very, Few Men, Distinction, First Term

It is therefore not to be wondered at that Lincoln's single term in the House of Representatives at Washington added practically nothing to his reputation.

- John George Nicolay

Nothing, Added, Practically, Representatives

The function of the politician, therefore, is one of continuous watchfulness and activity, and he must have intimate knowledge of details if he would work out grand results.

- John George Nicolay

Work, Politician, Activity, Continuous

Activity in politics also produces eager competition and sharp rivalry.

- John George Nicolay

Politics, Activity, Eager, Produces

It may be assumed as an axiom that Providence has never gifted any political party with all of political wisdom or blinded it with all of political folly.

- John George Nicolay

Political, May, Folly, Providence

In the early West, law and politics were parallel roads to usefulness as well as distinction.

- John George Nicolay

Politics, Law, Usefulness, Parallel

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