William Whipple Quotes

Powerful William Whipple for Daily Growth

About William Whipple

William Whipple Quarles (1836-1914), an American poet, essayist, and newspaper editor, was born in Norfolk County, Virginia on December 12, 1836. His early years were marked by slavery, but his family managed to secure their freedom before he reached adolescence. In 1850, the Quarles family moved to Richmond, Virginia, where young William began his education at the Richmond Colored Normal School. Quarles' work was significantly influenced by the abolitionist movement and the post-Civil War Reconstruction period. His poetry often reflected these societal upheavals and the struggles faced by African Americans during this time. He penned "The Contraband Field-Hand" (1863), a powerful poem that celebrated the emancipation of slaves, and "The Freedmen's Hymn" (1865), which became anthemic in the black community. Following the Civil War, Quarles moved to Washington D.C., where he worked as an editor for various African American newspapers, including The National Era, Frederick Douglass' Paper, and The National Republican. His editorial work often advocated for social justice and civil rights. In 1875, he founded The Richmond Planet, which became one of the most influential black newspapers in the United States. Quarles' literary contributions extend beyond poetry, with essays such as "The Negro a Man" (1867), in which he argued for the inherent humanity and intelligence of African Americans. His work laid the foundation for subsequent African American authors and journalists who would challenge racial stereotypes and advocate for equality. William Whipple Quarles passed away on April 20, 1914, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire today.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"It is in times like these that we learn what we are made of."

This quote suggests that challenging or difficult times reveal our true character, resilience, and strength. It implies that in adversity, one's inherent qualities become more apparent. By facing hardships and enduring through them, individuals discover what they are truly capable of, revealing their inner fortitude and resourcefulness.


"Let us be just a little more patient and a little more resolute than our enemies."

This quote by William Whipple encourages perseverance and strategic tenacity in the face of adversity. The implication is that, when dealing with opponents or challenges, one should maintain patience to avoid making hasty decisions and instead gather necessary information and resources. However, this patience should not prevent us from being resolute, meaning decisive and firm in our convictions, ultimately leading to success over time.


"In the great contests between man and man, or between a nation and another nation, it is not the right but the heart which prevails."

The quote underscores the idea that, in significant conflicts and competitions, whether on an individual or national level, it's not just the validity of rights or claims that determines victory, but also the strength and passion – the "heart" – of those involved. This implies that perseverance, determination, and emotional investment can often tip the scales in favor of the party with greater resolve.


"We must always remember that the strength of this country lies in its freedom, and our freedom depends on our love for one another."

This quote emphasizes the symbiotic relationship between national strength and unity, suggesting that freedom is a cornerstone of the United States and that this freedom relies on mutual respect and love among its citizens. In other words, the author is stating that love for one another fosters unity, which in turn strengthens the nation's freedom.


"The cause of America is in a great measure the cause of all mankind."

This quote emphasizes that the struggle for American independence was not solely an issue for Americans, but rather a fight for fundamental human rights and freedoms that resonated with people across the globe. William Whipple suggests that the values America represented – such as self-determination, individual liberties, and democratic governance – were universally important, making the cause of America relevant to all mankind. This perspective underscores the transformative impact that the American Revolution had on global politics and human rights advocacy.


I hope in time N. H. as well as the other States will feel the importance of Sovereignty.

- William Whipple

Will, Other, Importance, Sovereignty

I think experience has shown that privateers have done more toward distressing the trade of our enemies, and furnishing these States with necessaries, than Continental Ships of the same force.

- William Whipple

Furnishing, Continental, Ships

I fear a permanent Confederation will never be settled; tho the most material articles are I think got thro', so as to give great offence to some, but to my Satisfaction.

- William Whipple

Think, Give, Some, Offence

In my opinion the greatest advantage we can at present expect from our Navy; for at this early period We can not expect to have a Navy to cope with the British.

- William Whipple

Navy, Period, In My Opinion, Cope

Only nine States have been represented since my arrival 'till within three days. There are now Eleven States barely represented. This tardiness in the States or their Delegates, besides retarding the most important Business makes it exceeding fatiguing to those that do attend.

- William Whipple

Been, Nine, Till, Delegates

I wonder much that a court of Law should be in doubt whether a Resolution of Congress can superceed the Law of a Sovereign State.

- William Whipple

Law, Doubt, Sovereign State, I Wonder

I am sorry to say that sometimes matters of very small importance waste a good deal of precious time, by the long and repeated speeches and chicanery of gentlemen who will not wholly throw off the lawyer even in Congress.

- William Whipple

Small, Deal, Very, Gentlemen

The river route is certainly preferable, as it affords good grazing and an abundance of water.

- William Whipple

Preferable, Certainly, Route, Grazing

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