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Roscoe Conkling Quotes

Powerful Roscoe Conkling for Daily Growth

About Roscoe Conkling

Roscoe Conkling (June 14, 1829 – September 16, 1898) was an influential American politician, orator, and lawyer during the post-Civil War era, known for his eloquent speeches and strong political convictions. Born in Oneonta, New York, Conkling attended Hamilton College and Albany Law School before embarking on a successful legal career in Cooperstown, NY. In 1860, Conkling was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives as a Republican. He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming Speaker of the New York State Assembly and serving as U.S. Attorney General under President Grant from 1870 to 1871. However, his political career would be forever tainted by the Whiskey Ring scandal, in which he was accused—but never officially charged—of conspiring with whiskey distillers to defraud the government of taxes. Conkling is perhaps best known for his long-standing feud with President Ulysses S. Grant over the appointment of a federal judge. Known as the "Stalwart" faction, Conkling and his allies believed that the President should not have the sole power to appoint judges without Senate approval. This conflict led to Conkling's resignation from the Cabinet in 1873. In his later years, Conkling returned to private practice and continued to influence politics through his speeches and writings. He is often remembered for his powerful oratory skills and deep political convictions, which made him a significant figure in American politics during the late 19th century. Despite the Whiskey Ring scandal and his contentious relationship with Grant, Conkling's legacy endures as an example of fierce partisanship and unwavering loyalty to one's principles.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Power without principle is nothing more than brute force."

The quote by Roscoe Conkling underscores the importance of moral principles in wielding power effectively. It suggests that raw, unchecked power, or force, lacks substance or legitimacy without guiding principles. In other words, to truly achieve something meaningful, one's actions should be grounded in ethical values and a sense of righteousness.

"I am not bound to win, but I am bound to be true. I am not bound to succeed, but I am bound to live up to what light I have."

This quote by Roscoe Conkling emphasizes integrity and authenticity over success or popularity. It suggests that one should always remain true to their values and principles, even if it doesn't guarantee victory or success. The person is bound to live up to the best of their knowledge (the "light" they possess), rather than striving for personal gain at the expense of honesty and morality. This quote encourages individuals to maintain their moral compass, regardless of the outcome.

"Justice is the interest of the stronger party reduced to a rule."

This quote suggests that justice, in an idealistic sense, is not entirely impartial but rather tends to favor the more powerful or influential party. The rule or law serves as the tool by which the stronger side achieves their interests. It's a critical commentary on systemic power dynamics and the potential for the legal system to be biased towards those with greater resources or influence, even if that doesn't align with true fairness or justice.

"The only question left worth fighting for is: Who shall have the power?"

This quote by Roscoe Conkling emphasizes that at the core of many conflicts and struggles throughout history, the fundamental question lies in the distribution of power. It suggests that the pursuit of power has been, and continues to be, a significant motivator for human actions, and that understanding this struggle is crucial for interpreting various societal events and political dynamics. The quote underscores the importance of grappling with the question of who holds power, as it can have profound impacts on individual lives, communities, and nations.

"I prefer the hardihood of the heroic life, with all its uncertainty and insecurity, to the ease of a coward, or the cunning of a slave."

This quote emphasizes a preference for courage and freedom over safety and servitude. Roscoe Conkling values the challenging, uncertain, and unpredictable nature of living an authentic life as a hero, rather than choosing a path marked by cowardice or submission. The "ease" he refers to is the comfort found in avoiding risks and challenges, while the "cunning of a slave" denotes living one's life according to the will of others, not pursuing personal values or ambitions. Instead, Conkling celebrates the spirit of independent, brave individuals who choose to face adversity and embrace the unknown in pursuit of their dreams.

Obeying instructions I should never dare to disregard, expressing, also, my own firm conviction, I rise in behalf of the State of New York to propose a nomination with which the country and the Republican party can grandly win.

- Roscoe Conkling

Country, Instructions, Propose

Without bureaus, committees, officials or emissaries to manufacture sentiment in his favor, without intrigue or effort on his part, Grant is the candidate whose supporters have never threatened to bolt.

- Roscoe Conkling

Part, Sentiment, Intrigue, Committees

Show me a better man. Name one and I am answered; but do not point, as a disqualification, to the very facts which make this man fit beyond all others.

- Roscoe Conkling

Show, Very, Which, Answered

The election before us will be the Austerlitz of American politics.

- Roscoe Conkling

Politics, Will, Before, Election

He will hew to the line of right, let the chips fly where they may.

- Roscoe Conkling

Fly, Will, May, Chips

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