FAITH OF THE FOUNDERS: de Tocqueville on the Source of America’s Greatness
(ONE-MINUTE READ) — Alexis de Tocqueville was a French political philosopher of the early 19th century who came to America, observed our society, and then penned the classic work of sociology and political analysis, Democracy in America.
For many decades, de Tocqueville was among the most frequently quoted analysts of what makes the American experiment in self-government so amazing and unique. He was full of perceptive observations, including this one:
“Not until I went into the Churches of America and heard her pulpits aflame with righteousness did I understand the greatness and the genius of America. America is good. And if America ever ceases to be good, America will cease to be great.“ — Alexis de Tocqueville
Quotes reprinted in HillFaith’s “The Faith of The Founders” posts are compiled from Benjamin F. Morris’ classic work, “The Christian Life and Character of the Civil Institutions of the United States.” Morris, an historian and pastor, published the first edition more than a century ago.
Quotations, including today’s installment, are also compiled by Mark Strand, author of the Daily Inspirations email he shares on request here and that HillFaith highly recommends to Hill aides.
Mark was for 16 years President of the Congressional Institute, and he is a former fellow of the Harvard Institute of Politics. He was also a 24-year veteran congressional staffer, including four years as Chief of Staff to Sen. James Talent (R-Missouri).