Mark Twain Quotes

We have thrown away the most valuable asset we have – the individual right to oppose both flag and country when he (just he by himself) believes them to be in the wrong. We have thrown it all away: and with it, all that was really respectable about that grotesque and laughable word, Patriotism.

Each of you, for himself, by himself and on his own responsibility, must speak. And it is a solemn and weighty responsibility, and not lightly to be flung aside at the bullying of pulpit, press, government, or the empty catch phrases of politicians. Each must for himself alone decide what is right and what is […]

There are two kinds of patriotism – monarchical patriotism and republican patriotism. In the one case, the government and the king may rightfully furnish you their notions of patriotism: in the other, neither government nor the entire nation is privileged to dictate to any individual what the form of his patriotism shall be. The Gospel […]

If patriotism had been taught in the schools years ago the country would not be in the position it is in today. Mr. Skinner is better satisfied with the present conditions than I am. I would teach patriotism in the schools, and teach it this way: I would throw out the old maxim, “My country, […]

In the beginning of a change the patriot is a scarce man, and brave, and hated and scorned. When his cause succeeds, the timid join him, for then it costs nothing to be a patriot.

Patriot: The person who can holler the loudest without knowing what he is hollering about.

For the majority of us, the past is a regret, the future an experiment.

I said there was but one solitary thing about the past worth remembering and that was the fact that it is past – and can’t be restored.

It is easier to stay out than get out.

Difference between savage and civilized man: one is painted, the other gilded.