Quote by William Jennings Bryan, Cross of
The great cities rest upon our broad and fertile prairies. Burn down your cities and leave our farms, and your cities will spring up again as if by magic; but destroy our farms, and grass will grow in the streets of every city in the country.
Summary
This quote emphasizes the vital importance of agriculture and its inseparable connection to thriving urban centers. It suggests that while cities can be rebuilt quickly and easily after destruction, the destruction of farms would have devastating and long-lasting consequences for society. It highlights the foundational role of agriculture in sustaining urban growth, suggesting that without fertile farmland, even the most technologically advanced cities would eventually be rendered lifeless. Overall, it emphasizes the intrinsic value and resilience of agricultural communities, cautioning against overlooking the critical role they play in maintaining the prosperity of cities.