Elihu Root
Elihu Root
#### A Life of Public Service and Leadership
Full Name and Common Aliases
Elihu Root was born on February 15, 1845, in Clinton, New York, to Oren and Sally (née Sheldon) Root. He is often referred to as "The Lawyer Statesman" due to his remarkable career in both law and politics.
Birth and Death Dates
February 15, 1845 – February 7, 1937
Nationality and Profession(s)
American; Lawyer, Politician, Diplomat, and Statesman
Early Life and Background
Growing up in a family of modest means, Root's early life was marked by hard work and determination. He was the eldest of six children and developed a strong sense of responsibility from an early age. After completing his primary education at home, he attended Hamilton College (then known as "Madison University") where he excelled academically. Following college, Root pursued a career in law, graduating from Albany Law School in 1870.
Major Accomplishments
Root's impressive career spanned over four decades and included several notable positions:
U.S. Secretary of War (1899-1904): During his tenure, he implemented significant reforms, including the creation of the General Staff and the expansion of the Army Corps.
U.S. Secretary of State (1905-1909): As Secretary of State, Root played a key role in negotiating several international treaties, including the Hague Conventions and the Algeciras Conference.
Diplomatic Career: Root served as U.S. Ambassador to Mexico (1902) and later as a delegate to the International Commission on the Reduction of Armaments.Notable Works or Actions
In addition to his official roles, Root was an accomplished author and published several books on international law, politics, and economics. Some of his notable works include:
"The Military and Colonial Policy of the United States" (1916)
* "Experiments and Studies in Government and Politics" (1918)
Impact and Legacy
Elihu Root's contributions to American society are immeasurable. He played a crucial role in shaping the country's foreign policy, military strategy, and international relations during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His commitment to public service, leadership skills, and dedication to diplomacy have made him one of the most revered figures in U.S. history.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Root's quotes and writings are frequently referenced due to their relevance, insight, and eloquence. He was a masterful communicator who understood the importance of effective communication in politics and international relations. His words continue to inspire and educate people today, making him an enduring figure in American history.
Elihu Root's remarkable life serves as a testament to his boundless energy, intellect, and dedication to public service. As we reflect on his accomplishments, it becomes clear why he remains one of the most quoted and remembered figures in U.S. history. His legacy continues to inspire new generations of leaders, diplomats, and politicians who seek to make a positive impact on the world.
Quotes by Elihu Root
The line of least resistance in the progress of civilization is to make that theoretical postulate real by the continually increasing force of the world’s public opinion.
The limitation upon this mode of promoting peace lies in the fact that it consists in an appeal to the civilized side of man, while war is the product of forces proceeding from man’s original savage nature.
The old system of exploitation of colonies and the monopolization of their trade for the benefit of the mother country has practically disappeared.
To eradicate or modify or curb the tendencies which thus survive among civilized men is not a matter of intellectual conviction or training.
Love of fighting was bred in the blood of the race because those who did not love fighting were not suited to their environment and perished.
About half the practice of a decent lawyer is telling would-be clients that they are damned fools and should shut up.
I guess you will have to go to jail. If that is the result of not understanding the Income Tax Law, I will meet you there. We shall have a merry, merry time, for all our friends will be there. It will be an intellectual center, for no one understands the Income Tax Law except persons who have not sufficient intelligence to understand the questions that arise under it.
It is not a question of religion, or of creed, or of party; it is a question of declaring and maintaining the great American principle of eternal separation between Church and State.
I observe that there are two entirely different theories according to which individual men seek to get on in the world. One theory leads a man to pull down everybody around him in order to climb up on them to a higher place. The other leads a man to help everybody around him in order that he may go up with them.
The worst, the hardest, the most disagreeable thing that you may have to do may be the thing that counts most, because it is the hard discipline, and it alone, that makes possible the highest efficiency.