“Our history has been one of expansion, the expansion being of different kinds at different times. This expansion is not a matter of regret, but of pride.”

Speech at Minnesota State Fair
September 2, 1901

“We must soberly set to work to find out all we can about the existence and extent of every evil, must acknowledge it to be such, and must then attack it with unyielding resolution.”

The Forum Magazine
April 1894

“It is a bad thing to permit sensationalism and hysteria to shape the development of our sports.”

Speech at Harvard University
June 28, 1905

“Speak softly and carry a big stick.”

Speech at Minnesota State Fair
September 2, 1901

“In a time of sudden and wide-spread disaster, caused by a flood, a blizzard, an earthquake, or an epidemic, there may be ample reason for the extension of charity on the largest scale to everyone who needs it.”

Essay on Civic Helpfulness, Century Magazine
October 1900

“In the long run the one vital factor in the permanent prosperity of the country is the high individual character of the average American worker.”

Fifth Annual Message, Washington
December 5, 1905

“Our relations with the other powers of the world are important; but still more important are our relations among ourselves.”

Inaugural Address
March 4, 1905

“It is entirely inexcusable to try to combine the unready hand with the unbridled tongue.”

An Autobiography
1913

“The only safe and honorable rule of foreign policy for the United States is to show itself courteous toward other nations, scrupulous not to infringe upon their rights, and yet able and ready to defend its own.”

Speech at Cairo, Illinois
October 3, 1907

“Any country whose people conduct themselves well can count upon our hearty friendship.”

Fourth Annual Message,
December 6, 1904

“The republic cannot stand if honesty and decency do not prevail alike in public and private life.”

Speech in Galena, IL
April 27, 1900

“Remember what a legislative body is. It is a body whose first duty is to act, not to talk.”

Speech in New York City
March 6, 1891