Charles Austin Beard Quotes

A collection of quotes by Charles Austin Beard.

Charles Austin Beard was an eminent American historian and political scientist, primarily known for his influential work in the field of American historiography. He was born on November 27, 1874, in Knightstown, Indiana. Beard obtained his education from DePauw University and completed his Ph.D. in history from Columbia University in 1904.

Beard's most significant contribution to historiography was his emphasis on economic factors as the driving force behind historical events. He advocated for a more pragmatic view of history, focusing on class conflict and economic interests. This perspective challenged the traditional interpretations of history, which emphasized political and constitutional aspects. Beard's ideas found expression in his groundbreaking work, "An Economic Interpretation of the Constitution of the United States," published in 1913.

Throughout his career, Beard actively engaged in public discourse and was a prominent commentator on American politics. He believed that historians should play an active role in shaping public policy and educating citizens on political matters. Beard's progressive views were often controversial, but he maintained a significant influence on public opinion.

Charles Beard's contributions to American historiography continue to be studied and debated to this day. His dedication to exploring the economic motivations behind historical events helped shape the field of history and influenced future generations of historians. Charles Austin Beard passed away on September 1, 1948, leaving a lasting impact on American historical scholarship.

The lessons of history? There are four: The bee fertilizes t

The lessons of history? There are four: The bee fertilizes the flower it robs; whom the gods would destroy they first make mad with power; the mills of God grind slowly, but they grind exceeding small; when it is dark enough, you can see the stars.

Charles Austin Beard

History

I am convinced that the world is not a mere bog in which men

I am convinced that the world is not a mere bog in which men and women trample themselves and die. Something magnificent is taking place here amidst the cruelties and tragedies, and the supreme challenge to intelligence is that of making the noblest and best in our curious heritage prevail.

Charles Austin Beard

Humanity

The best way to get yourself a reputation as a dangerous cit

The best way to get yourself a reputation as a dangerous citizen is to go about repeating the very phrases which our founding fathers used in the struggle for independence.

Charles Austin Beard

Independence