“I do not look upon these United States as a finished product. We are still in the making.”
- 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 do not look upon these United States as a finished product. We are still in the making.”
Explanation
In this quote, Franklin D. Roosevelt reflects on the evolving nature of the United States, emphasizing that the country is always in the process of growth and improvement. Roosevelt’s words suggest that the nation, despite its achievements, is not a static or completed entity, but rather an ongoing project that requires continuous effort, adaptation, and reform. This perspective aligns with Roosevelt’s progressive policies during his presidency, particularly the New Deal, which aimed to address the challenges of the Great Depression and modernize various aspects of American society. He believed that the U.S. must constantly evolve to meet the needs of its people and the changing world.
Roosevelt’s statement also underscores the idea that democracy and freedom are not static ideals but living principles that must be nurtured and updated over time. The phrase “still in the making” suggests that the nation’s institutions, values, and social structures can always be refined to better serve its citizens. Roosevelt saw the work of building a more equitable, just, and prosperous society as an ongoing effort that required active participation and commitment from both government and the public.
In today’s context, Roosevelt’s view remains highly relevant, especially as the United States grapples with issues such as social justice, economic inequality, and political division. His statement serves as a reminder that nations, like individuals, are not defined by their past alone but by their ability to adapt and grow. The idea of the U.S. as a “work in progress” encourages an ongoing dialogue about the direction of the country and its commitment to improving the lives of its citizens. It reminds us that the promise of democracy is not a finished ideal but an ever-evolving pursuit.
