Thomas Francis Meagher Quotes

A good government may, indeed, redress the grievances of an injured people; but a strong people can alone build up a great nation.

- Thomas Francis Meagher

The glory of the old Irish nation, which in our hour will grow young and strong again. Should we fail, the country will not be worth more than it is now. The sword of famine is less sparing than the bayonet of the soldier.

- Thomas Francis Meagher

It is not only our duty to America, but also to Ireland. We could not hope to succeed in our effort to make Ireland a Republic without the moral and material support of the liberty-loving citizens of these United States.

- Thomas Francis Meagher

Judged by the law of England, I know this crime entails upon me the penalty of death; but the history of Ireland explains that crime and justifies it.

- Thomas Francis Meagher

The prosperity of a nation requires the protection of a senate. Hereafter a national senate may require the protection of a national army.

- Thomas Francis Meagher

I now bid farewell to the country of my birth - of my passions - of my death; a country whose misfortunes have invoked my sympathies - whose factions I sought to quell - whose intelligence I prompted to a lofty aim - whose freedom has been my fatal dream.

- Thomas Francis Meagher

The dependence of one people upon another, even for the benefits of legislation, is the deepest source of national weakness.

- Thomas Francis Meagher

A jury of my countrymen, it is true, have found me guilty of the crime of which I stood indicted. For this I entertain not the slightest feeling of resentment towards them.

- Thomas Francis Meagher

The treason of which I stand convicted loses all its guilt, has been sanctified as a duty, and will be ennobled as a sacrifice.

- Thomas Francis Meagher

Great interests demand great safeguards.

- Thomas Francis Meagher

But it so happens, and it will ever happen so, that they who have lived to serve their country - no matter how weak their efforts may have been - are sure to receive the thanks and blessings of its people.

- Thomas Francis Meagher

I have done what I felt to be my duty.

- Thomas Francis Meagher