Four Freedoms Speech: Happiness Quotes

This is definitely an example of FDR looking to the happiness of future generations as justification for rejecting isolationism in the present, but there's something else at work here, too. Notice how he refers to "Americas," in the plural—by which we can only assume he means North, Central, and South America. Why might the United States have a vested interest in the military and international policies of it neighbors? Hmm...

It sort of has to, right? Otherwise, democracy goes the way of the dodo, and with it, basic human rights. Now, that's not a very happy thought, is it?

Another way of thinking about this statement is that the happiness of one country can't be traded for the happiness of another. Not only is this just a terrible thing to do, but it also won't lead to a peaceful future. It will breed conflict and dissent among the oppressed and betrayed that would only lead to more violence in the future. Yikes.

Again, FDR invokes the idea of happiness as a fragile entity in need of protection, and again he relates it to the quality of life lived by future generations. This functions similarly to the "thinking of our children and of their children" comment, but with a heightened sense of urgency.

Also, note how FDR has a habit of repeating certain major points. Is it on purpose, and if so, why?

Appearing just after FDR directs his audience to contemplate the social and economic factors that lead to fascism—which, unlike democracy, is sickly and weak—this comment is a total dig at tyranny in general and Nazism in particular. Take a look at the list of qualities FDR provides following this statement, all of which are examples of democratic strength. A healthy body politic is a happy body politic.