Machiavelli, Niccolò, 1469-1527

In an essay on politics and politicians, Theodore Roosevelt argues that politicians should not promise voters what they know to be impossible to achieve; they should only promise what they know can be achieved in the political system, and they should then strive to fulfill these realizable promises through practical politics. Roosevelt also asserts that compromise is often needed to secure the passage of legislation and that compromise should not be sneered at by politicians.

Three political cartoons depicting Roosevelt in 1884, 1889, and 1912 illustrate the essay.

Collection

Theodore Roosevelt Association Journal

Creation Date

1900-07-28

In an essay on politics and politicians, Theodore Roosevelt argues that politicians should not promise voters what they know to be impossible to achieve; they should only promise what they know can be achieved in the political system, and they should then strive to fulfill these realizable promises through practical politics. Roosevelt also asserts that compromise is often needed to secure the passage of legislation and that compromise should not be sneered at by politicians. A listing of the officers of the Theodore Roosevelt Association appears on the second page of the essay.

Collection

Theodore Roosevelt Association Journal

Creation Date

1900-07-28

Creator(s)

Roosevelt, Theodore, 1858-1919

In a commencement address to the faculty and students of the University of Illinois, German Ambassador Hermann Speck von Sternburg urges the graduating students to use their theoretical and practical knowledge for the public good.

Collection

Library of Congress Manuscript Division

Creation Date

1906-09-09

Creator(s)

Sternburg, Hermann Speck von, Freiherr, 1852-1908