“No man is worth his salt who is not ready at all times to risk his well-being, to risk his body, to risk his life, in a great cause.”
- October 27, 1858 – January 6, 1919
- American
- Politician, military officer
- Served as the 26th President of the United States, promoted progressive reforms and environmental conservation policies, and supported the construction of the Panama Canal
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Quote
“No man is worth his salt who is not ready at all times to risk his well-being, to risk his body, to risk his life, in a great cause.”
Explanation
In this quote, Roosevelt asserts that true value and honor come from the willingness to sacrifice for something greater than oneself. He emphasizes that a person who is unwilling to take risks for a noble cause is not living up to their potential or fulfilling their duty as a human being. By risking one’s well-being, body, and even life, an individual demonstrates commitment, courage, and the ability to contribute meaningfully to causes that promote the common good. Roosevelt believed that only those who are willing to make sacrifices for justice or the greater good deserve true respect and admiration.
Roosevelt himself was no stranger to sacrifice and courage. He famously led the Rough Riders during the Spanish-American War, risking his own life for a cause he believed was important. His sense of duty and his willingness to step into difficult situations—whether on the battlefield or in his political career—embodied his belief that personal risk is sometimes necessary to achieve great goals. Whether it was his role in foreign policy, his conservation efforts, or his progressive reforms, Roosevelt was always ready to take action in the face of danger or adversity.
This quote remains relevant in today’s world, especially when discussing leadership, personal sacrifice, and social responsibility. It serves as a reminder that meaningful change often requires courage and the willingness to take risks, whether in activism, service, or personal commitment to important causes. Roosevelt’s words encourage individuals to step up when the opportunity arises to contribute to something larger than themselves, knowing that it is through sacrifice and dedication that we find true purpose and value in life.
