Carl Schurz Quotes

A collection of quotes by Carl Schurz.

Carl Schurz was a prominent German-American statesman, journalist, and reformer born on March 2, 1829, in Liblar, Prussia (now Germany). He grew up in a politically charged environment and actively participated in the German revolutionary movement of 1848. Following the failed revolution, Schurz had to flee to Switzerland to avoid arrest.

In 1852, Schurz immigrated to the United States, settling initially in Philadelphia and later moving to Wisconsin, where he became involved in Republican Party politics. He passionately campaigned against slavery and was a steadfast advocate for personal liberty and civil rights. During the American Civil War, he served as a Union Army General, earning recognition for his military leadership and bravery.

After the war, Schurz embarked on a successful political career. He served as the U.S. Minister to Spain from 1869 to 1871 and as the Secretary of the Interior under President Rutherford B. Hayes from 1877 to 1881. Throughout his public service, he championed civil service reform and fought against corruption in government.

Schurz was also a prominent journalist and orator, contributing to various newspapers and publications and delivering powerful speeches advocating for social justice and political reform. He ardently supported the rights of immigrants and was an ardent opponent of discrimination and xenophobia.

Throughout his life, Carl Schurz remained a dedicated advocate for democracy, individual freedoms, and equal rights for all citizens. He passed away on May 14, 1906, leaving behind a lasting legacy as a champion of progressive ideals and a leader for social change.

From the equality of rights springs identity of our highest

From the equality of rights springs identity of our highest interests you cannot subvert your neighbor's rights without striking a dangerous blow at your own.

Carl Schurz


From the equality of rights springs identity of our highest

From the equality of rights springs identity of our highest interests; you cannot subvert your neighbor's rights without striking a dangerous blow at your own.

Carl Schurz

Right

The Senator from Wisconsin cannot frighten me by exclaiming,

The Senator from Wisconsin cannot frighten me by exclaiming, My country, right or wrong. In one sense I say so too. My country; and my country is the great American Republic. My country, right or wrong; if right, to be kept right; and if wrong, to be set right.

Carl Schurz


Consider: if you incorporate those tropical countries with t

Consider: if you incorporate those tropical countries with the Republic of the United States, you will have to incorporate their people too.

Carl Schurz


Ideals are like the stars: we never reach them, but like the

Ideals are like the stars: we never reach them, but like the mariners of the sea, we chart our course by them.

Carl Schurz

Idealism

My country right or wrong; when right, to keep her right; wh

My country right or wrong; when right, to keep her right; when wrong, to put her right.

Carl Schurz

Loyalty