“There is no victory at bargain basement prices.”
- October 14, 1890 – March 28, 1969
- American
- The 34th President of the United States, General, Military Leader
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Quote
“There is no victory at bargain basement prices.”
Explanation
In this concise and pointed quote, Eisenhower asserts that true success—whether in war, politics, or national progress—requires significant effort, sacrifice, and investment. The phrase “bargain basement prices” implies a desire for cheap or easy solutions, which he firmly rejects. His message is clear: lasting victories, especially those involving national interests or moral causes, cannot be achieved without paying their full cost in terms of time, resources, and human dedication.
The historical context is rooted in Eisenhower’s experience during World War II and his presidency during the Cold War. As a military leader, he knew that victory in battle demanded logistics, planning, and human sacrifice, not shortcuts. As president, he faced decisions about defense spending, foreign aid, and infrastructure (such as the creation of the interstate highway system), all of which required serious national commitment. His quote was a rebuke to any inclination toward complacency, underinvestment, or wishful thinking in the face of complex challenges.
Today, the quote remains relevant in discussions of public policy, national security, and social reform. Whether addressing climate change, economic inequality, or global conflict, Eisenhower’s words remind us that there are no easy paths to meaningful solutions. Genuine progress demands leadership, sacrifice, and the courage to face costs head-on. Victory—whether personal or national—is never cheap, and pretending otherwise is a recipe for failure.
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