Letter from Theodore Roosevelt to Samuel Train Dutton
The attacks against Armenians have provided a “fresh shock of sympathy and indignation.” If the United States had done its duty in Mexico and regarding the world war, the nation would now be in a place to assist the Armenians. As long as the country follows pacifist principles it will be an ineffective advocate for “international righteousness.” All of the recent “terrible inequities” can be traced to the invasion and subjugation of Belgium and the failure of neutrals to protest. However, the “crowning outrage” has been the Turkish treatment of Armenians and it is dreadful that the United States remains neutral. The United States must prepare to defend itself or it cannot perform any international duty. Wrongdoing can only be stopped by the brave and the just.
Collection
Library of Congress Manuscript Division
Creation Date
1915-11-24