Lou Henry Hoover Quotes

Powerful Lou Henry Hoover for Daily Growth

About Lou Henry Hoover

Lou Henry Hoover, born on August 29, 1874, in Waterloo, Iowa, was an influential American writer, editor, and suffragist. Known as the wife of President Herbert Hoover, Lou Hoover's own accomplishments often overshadowed her political spouse. Growing up on a farm in west central Iowa, Lou developed a strong work ethic and love for learning that would shape her future endeavors. She attended Stanford University during its early years, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Geology in 1895 – one of only eight women in her class. Lou Hoover's writing career began when she joined the faculty at Stanford as an instructor in zoology and geology. In 1903, she co-founded and became editor of Stanford's student publication, the Palo Alto Literary Review. She also served as president of the Stanford Women's Athletic Association and was instrumental in organizing the first intercollegiate women's track meet. In 1905, Lou Hoover met Herbert Hoover, a mining engineer who would later become President of the United States. They were married on August 10, 1905. Together, they faced numerous challenges, including the Great London Fire of 1910 and World War I. Throughout these hardships, Lou played an essential role in supporting her husband's efforts while continuing her own charitable work. Lou Hoover authored several books, including "The Sherwoods of Sherwood Forest" (1924) and "Memoirs of Mrs. Herbert C. Hoover" (1951). Her writing often reflected her passion for travel, adventure, and the simple pleasures of life. As First Lady from 1929 to 1933, Lou Hoover championed youth education and literacy, establishing the National Federation of Music Clubs' White House Series. Lou Henry Hoover passed away on January 7, 1944, leaving behind a legacy as an accomplished author, editor, and pioneering suffragist who broke boundaries in academia and made significant contributions to American society during her lifetime.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"We face the permanent task of making the less fortunate feel the fullness of life without which no happiness is possible."

This quote by Lou Henry Hoover emphasizes the importance of ensuring that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, has access to the essential elements of a fulfilling life in order to experience true happiness. It suggests that addressing the needs of those who are less fortunate is not just a temporary task, but a continuous and permanent responsibility. This perspective underscores the idea that a society's overall happiness and prosperity depends on its ability to include and uplift all its members, especially the marginalized and underprivileged.


"Difficulties lead us to ourselves."

Lou Henry Hoover's quote suggests that adversity serves as a means to self-discovery, prompting individuals to tap into their inner resources, resilience, and character during challenging times. It implies that when faced with difficulties, we are forced to confront our own strengths, weaknesses, and values in order to find solutions or overcome obstacles, thus leading us to a deeper understanding of ourselves.


"The greatest thing a parent can do for his children is to pass on to them a love of reading."

This quote emphasizes the invaluable impact parents can have on their children's lives by instilling a passion for reading. By cultivating a love for books, stories, and knowledge through reading, parents are equipping their children with a lifelong skill that opens doors to new ideas, experiences, and personal growth. This love of reading will not only improve literacy but also expand their imagination, critical thinking abilities, and empathy – essential qualities in becoming well-rounded individuals who can contribute positively to society.


"Our greatest fear should not be of failure, but of succeeding at things in life that don't really matter."

Lou Henry Hoover's quote signifies the importance of living a meaningful life rather than pursuing success for its own sake. It suggests that our deepest apprehension should not stem from the fear of failure, but rather from the possibility of achieving success in areas that hold little value or significance to us personally. In essence, this quote encourages us to focus on objectives and accomplishments that contribute positively to our lives and the world around us.


"To be interested in the living past, rather than the dead future, means to be concerned with the life and growth of one's own soul." (This quote is attributed to Lou Henry Hoover, though its original source is from Cardinal Newman)

This quote encourages focusing on personal growth and understanding history as a means for self-development, rather than dwelling on speculations about the future or striving blindly towards it. By studying and learning from the past, one can gain wisdom, insights, and values that help shape their character, attitudes, and decisions in life. This perspective promotes an active engagement with history as a tool for personal enrichment and soulful growth.


The independent girl is a person before whose wrath only the most rash dare stand, and, they, it must be confessed, with much fear and trembling.

- Lou Henry Hoover

Girl, Independent, Before, Trembling

I majored in geology in college but have majored in Herbert Hoover ever since.

- Lou Henry Hoover

College, Ever, Hoover, None

The independent girl is truly of quite modern origin, and usually is a most bewitching little piece of humanity.

- Lou Henry Hoover

Girl, Independent, Origin, Little Piece

I was a Scout years ago, before the movement started, when my father took me fishing, camping and hunting. Then I was sorry that more girls could not have what I had. When I learned of the movement, I thought, here is what I always wanted other girls to have.

- Lou Henry Hoover

Camping, Here, Other, Years Ago

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