History proves that dictatorships do not grow out of strong and successful governments, but out of weak and helpless ones. If by democratic methods people get a government strong enough to protect them from fear and starvation, their democracy succeeds; but if they do not, they grow impatient. Therefore, the only sure bulwark of continuing liberty is a government strong enough to protect the interests of the people, and a people strong enough and well enough informed to maintain its sovereign control over its government.

Summary

This quote highlights the relationship between the strength of a government and the stability of a democracy. It asserts that dictatorships arise when governments are weak and unable to meet the needs of their citizens. Democracy succeeds when it can effectively protect people from fear and poverty through strong governance. If these democratic methods fail, people become impatient and may be more inclined to support alternative forms of government. To preserve liberty, the quote argues for a balance - a government that is capable of safeguarding the interests of its people, and an informed and empowered citizenry capable of exerting control over the government.