Quote by Walter Bagehot
History is strewn with the wrecks of nations which have gained a little progressiveness at the cost of a great deal of hard manliness, and have thus prepared themselves for destruction as soon as the movements of the world gave a chance for it.
Summary
This quote by Theodore Roosevelt suggests that throughout history, there have been nations that prioritized progress and modernity while neglecting the virtues of strength and resilience. By sacrificing their traditional values and toughness, these nations became vulnerable and ultimately doomed to collapse when confronted by the changing dynamics of the world. Roosevelt warns about the perils of abandoning core principles solely in pursuit of perceived advancement, implying that a balance between progressiveness and fortitude is essential for long-term survival and success.