TDIH: Coolidge on Labor Day
“To my mind America has but one main problem, the character of the men and women it shall produce . . . ."
On this day in 1924, Calvin Coolidge discusses Labor Day, which he thought a “peculiarly American holiday,” recognizing the “worth and dignity of the men and women who toil.”
He spoke proudly of the character of the American people: “We are proud of work and ashamed of idleness,” he said.
Hmm. What would he think of the past few years?
“To my mind America has but one main problem,” he told his audience on this day so long ago, “the character of the men and women it shall produce. . . . The door of opportunity swings wide open in our country. Through it, in constant flow, go those who toil. America recognizes no aristocracy save those who work. The badge of service is the sole requirement for admission to the ranks of our nobility.”
Good character and hard work. He saw them working in tandem, each supporting the other. “The foundation for a new era is being steadily and surely laid,” he concluded. “Whether we shall enter upon it, depends upon the attitude of our fellow countrymen. I have an abiding faith in the American people.”
Do you think his concluding thoughts still ring true?
Sources can always be found on my website, here.
I am greatly afraid that for over the century that has passed, so has the work ethics of over 50% of our population. Instead the new generation wants to start at the top of the ladder who do dare to enter the job market while many others are content to live off their parents or rely on government handouts. I fear for the future of our Republic Nation and it’s once proud work ethic and freedoms. Now we pander to the numerous freaked out minorities, illegal aliens, and career politicians that have destroyed our country. 😢😢😢
❤️🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
Sadly over time the politicians with their terrible policies have created a mostly lazy population. The last several years with a four year break between administrations it has increased exponentially. It’s sad when people want to get free stuff. It takes away their dignity. I am sure Coolidge and other former presidents would be deeply disappointed by the state of the country today. Happy Labor Day to the still hard working Americans who take pride in their labor and set a good example for the younger generations and others.