Memorial Day, Explained Better Than I Could

“Memorial day quotes” is a thing. People are seriously seeking inspiration and meaning on this holiday. I thought it would be difficult to find a few good, powerful, slightly subversive and yet unarguably patriotic quotes from respectable famous people. But no: this was easy, and fun, and thought-provoking. Here’s some strong words, and images to accompany:

“Here is your country. Cherish these natural wonders, cherish the natural resources, cherish the history and romance as a sacred heritage, for your children and your children’s children. Do not let selfish men or greedy interests skin your country of its beauty, its riches or its romance.“ Theodore Roosevelt

Photo by Laurentiu Iordache on Unsplash

“Those who have long enjoyed such privileges as we enjoy forget in time that men have died to win them.” Franklin D. Roosevelt

Photo by Thomas Tucker on Unsplash

“People sleep peaceably in their beds at night only because rough men stand ready to do violence on their behalf.“ George Orwell

 

Photo by Holly Mindrup on Unsplash

“A hero is someone who understands the responsibility that comes with his freedom.” Bob Dylan

Photo by Sacha Styles on Unsplash

“The magic of America is that we’re a free and open society with a mixed population. Part of our security is our freedom.” Madeline Albright

Photo by Nitish Meena on Unsplash

“My country owes me nothing. It gave me, as it gives every boy and girl, a chance. It gave me schooling, independence of action, opportunity for service and honor.“ Herbert Hoover

Photo by Kelsey Knight on Unsplash

“The essence of America — that which really unites us — is not ethnicity, or nationality or religion — it is an idea — and what an idea it is: That you can come from humble circumstances and do great things.” Condoleeza Rice

Photo by Samuel Schneider on Unsplash

“A constitution, as important as it is, will mean nothing unless the people are yearning for liberty and freedom.” Ruth Bader Ginsburg

Photo by Alice Donovan Rouse on Unsplash

“Patriotism means to stand by the country. It does not mean to stand by the president or any other public official.“ Theodore Roosevelt

Photo by Tim Gouw on Unsplash

“Patriotism is supporting your country all the time, and your government when it deserves it.“ Mark Twain

Photo by Jose Moreno on Unsplash

“In the face of impossible odds, people who love this country can change it.“ Barack Obama

Photo by Alice Donovan Rouse on Unsplash


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