“I ask you to judge me by the enemies I have made.”
- January 30, 1882 – April 12, 1945
- American
- Politician
- [Achievements]
- As president of the United States, he promoted economic recovery from the Great Depression with the New Deal policy
- He led the Allied powers to victory in World War II
- [Criticism]
- His hard-line policy toward Japan triggered the attack on Pearl Harbor
- He pushed for the forced internment policy of Japanese Americans due to racist feelings toward the Japanese
- He promoted the Manhattan Project, a plan to develop the atomic bomb
Quote
“I ask you to judge me by the enemies I have made.”
Explanation
In this quote, Franklin D. Roosevelt flips the typical notion of being judged by one’s allies or successes and instead asks to be evaluated by the enemies he has made. This statement reflects Roosevelt’s belief in standing firm in his principles, even if it meant alienating certain groups or individuals. Throughout his presidency, Roosevelt often made bold and controversial decisions that earned him the ire of political opponents, business elites, and conservative factions. By asking to be judged by the enemies he made, Roosevelt emphasizes that courageous leadership often requires making difficult choices that challenge the status quo, even at the cost of personal popularity.
This quote also suggests that a person’s moral character and leadership strength can be assessed by the adversaries they attract. Roosevelt understood that certain reforms, like the New Deal programs, would inevitably generate opposition from those who stood to lose power or wealth. For Roosevelt, the resistance he faced was a sign that he was advocating for meaningful change that threatened entrenched interests. His leadership was often defined by his willingness to stand up to powerful adversaries for the greater good of the country, particularly in times of crisis.
In the modern world, this quote is relevant in evaluating leadership and the consequences of standing up for justice or progress. Political leaders who challenge the established norms, whether in business, social issues, or governance, often face strong opposition. The enemies they make can serve as a reflection of their integrity and commitment to change. For example, advocates of environmental or social justice movements often face resistance from industries or politicians benefiting from the status quo. Roosevelt’s words serve as a reminder that making the tough, right choices can sometimes create enemies, but it is the courage to do so that defines true leadership.
