“We can have no ’50-50′ allegiance in this country. Either a man is an American and nothing else, or he is not an American at all.”
- 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
Quote
“We can have no ’50-50′ allegiance in this country. Either a man is an American and nothing else, or he is not an American at all.”
Explanation
In this quote, Roosevelt asserts the idea that full loyalty to the United States is a requirement for being an American citizen. He rejects the notion of divided loyalties, suggesting that an individual cannot be half loyal to the country while maintaining allegiance to another nation or identity. Roosevelt’s words reflect his strong belief in national unity and the importance of patriotism—he believed that those who chose to become Americans should commit entirely to the values, ideals, and duties of the country, without any conflicting affiliations or divided priorities.
Roosevelt was a vocal advocate for the idea of Americanism, especially during a time of increasing immigration and the growing diversity of the American population. While he was a staunch supporter of cultural diversity, he believed that loyalty to the United States as a nation should take precedence. His views on loyalty were tied to the belief that a united country required citizens who were fully engaged and dedicated to the nation’s welfare, without competing national or foreign allegiances.
In the modern context, this quote touches on ongoing discussions about national identity and multiculturalism. It highlights the dilemmas faced by individuals with dual citizenship, those navigating the complexities of globalization, and the question of whether divided loyalties can be reconciled within the context of modern societies. While Roosevelt’s viewpoint reflects the values of his time, his words still resonate in debates about citizenship, immigration, and the balance between individual identities and national allegiance.
