Four Freedoms Speech: Loyalty Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Sentence)

Quote #1

Let us say to the democracies: "We Americans are vitally concerned in your defense of freedom. We are putting forth our energies, our resources and our organizing powers to give you the strength to regain and maintain a free world. [...] This is our purpose and our pledge." (92-95)

This is a good example of FDR's concept of international loyalty. He is saying America should lead by example...especially if that example promotes American values. His perspective is global, and he's inviting his listeners to join him in that vision, and support America's democratic friends and allies. Sure, he does that thing when a person adopts a single voice to represent an entire population or group of people, but, hey, that's what he was elected to do.

Quote #2

A free nation has the right to expect full cooperation from all groups. (106)

Remember: freedom isn't free. Freedom for all doesn't mean freedom for those who feel like fighting for it and freedom for those who feel like sitting on the sofa eating Funyuns (even though it sometimes works out that way). FDR is like a high school football coach here, but instead of yelling for no reason, he is insisting that everyone do their parts to defend the nation. One of the perks and responsibilities of living in a free nation is that everyone works together to keep it that way.

Quote #3

The best way of dealing with the few slackers or trouble makers in our midst is, first, to shame them by patriotic example, and, if that fails, to use the sovereignty of government to save government. (108)

Let's face it: this sentence doesn't age well. The gist is that no one likes a slacker during a time of crisis because it demonstrates a selfish lack of empathy and respect for the lives of others. Loyalty often requires a lot of hard work and sacrifice. To be a slacker during the fight for democracy is to be ungrateful for all the freedoms that democracy provides...and at best, that's just plain rude.