Robert M. La Follette Quotes

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"You can't both be right and the other fellow wrong, every man is sometimes wrong."

This quote highlights the human propensity for error, suggesting that it's possible for two individuals to hold differing viewpoints, with both being incorrect about a particular matter at some point. It encourages empathy, understanding, and open-mindedness in discussions, as it acknowledges that absolute certainty is rare and that everyone, including oneself, can be fallible. The message is to approach disagreements with humility and a willingness to learn from others, fostering an atmosphere of growth and improvement.

"I would rather be a free man who fears the State, than a happy slave who fears the master."

This quote emphasizes the value that personal freedom holds over one's own happiness when it is compromised by oppressive authority or control. La Follette argues that living in a state of fear due to subjection to an external power, even if it promises contentment, is less desirable than embracing freedom despite its associated risks and uncertainties. In essence, he suggests that true happiness comes from the exercise of personal agency and self-determination, rather than from submission or enslavement to a dominant force.

"I believe there are only two places in the world where freedom prevails: America and the wide open prairie, not even governed by men and laws, but dominated by the great, untrammeled winds blowing westward."

This quote by Robert M. La Follette signifies his deep appreciation for the spirit of freedom that he saw embodied in both America and the vast, untamed American prairie. He views these two entities as places where freedom reigns uninhibited by human control or regulations. America, being a democratic nation founded on principles of liberty, represents political freedom. The wild, open prairie symbolizes natural freedom, where nothing restrains the free movement of the great winds blowing westward, untouched and unconstrained by mankind. Essentially, La Follette is expressing his admiration for the ideals of freedom he sees in both these realms: one governed by laws and people, and the other only by nature's forces.

"The first essential step in the evolution of every democracy is the freedom to make mistakes."

This quote emphasizes that the essence of a democracy lies not only in its ability to make correct decisions, but also in the liberty to err. It suggests that the process of growth and development in a democratic society is inherently tied to the capacity for experimentation, innovation, and learning from mistakes, as these are key components in shaping a more informed and mature decision-making process. In essence, La Follette posits that the freedom to make mistakes is crucial because it fosters adaptability, resilience, and progress in a democratic system.

"In politics as in war, it is the set time to strike that insures success, and the set time has now come for the progressive movement."

This quote by Robert M. La Follette suggests that there are opportune moments in both political endeavors and military campaigns where decisive action can ensure success. In a broader context, he's implying that the time is right for the Progressive Movement – a political ideology advocating for greater democracy, political reform, and social welfare – to make significant strides. The "set time" refers to a window of opportunity when conditions are favorable for change, and the Progressives should seize this moment to achieve their goals.