“When you see a rattlesnake poised to strike, you do not wait until he has struck to crush him.”
- 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
“When you see a rattlesnake poised to strike, you do not wait until he has struck to crush him.”
Explanation
In this quote, Franklin D. Roosevelt uses a vivid metaphor to emphasize the importance of preemptive action in the face of a clear threat. Roosevelt’s comparison of a rattlesnake to an imminent danger suggests that, when confronted with a hostile or dangerous situation, one should act decisively and without hesitation before the threat has a chance to escalate. The quote reflects Roosevelt’s belief in the necessity of strong, decisive leadership, particularly when dealing with crises. This principle was crucial during his presidency, especially in addressing the rise of Nazi Germany and Imperial Japan before the United States entered World War II. Roosevelt understood that waiting until a threat had fully materialized could have disastrous consequences.
The quote also speaks to Roosevelt’s broader approach to foreign policy and national security. For example, before the U.S. joined the war, Roosevelt took actions like providing aid to Great Britain and lending support to allies even though the U.S. had not yet entered the conflict. He recognized the dangerous potential of the Axis powers early on and believed that proactive measures were necessary to protect global peace and democracy.
In modern times, this quote can be applied to various situations, including business, politics, and even personal relationships. It speaks to the importance of addressing problems early, whether they are security threats, economic downturns, or social issues. By confronting problems before they worsen, individuals and societies can avoid unnecessary harm. It also highlights the importance of foresight and vigilance in ensuring that emerging challenges are dealt with swiftly and effectively, rather than being allowed to spiral into more significant crises.
