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The best that can be said on behalf of this traditional American system of political ideas is that it contained the germ of better things. The combination of Federalism and Republicanism which formed the substance of the system, did not constitute a progressive and formative political principle, but it pointed in the direction of a constructive formula.

— Herbert Croly

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More quotes by Herbert Croly

The only possible foundation for a better social structure is the existing order, of which the contemporary system of nationalized states forms the foundation.

American history contains much matter for pride and congratulation, and much matter for regret and humiliation.

The higher American patriotism, on the other hand, combines loyalty to historical tradition and precedent with the imaginative projection of an ideal National promise.

The American economic, political, and social organization has given to its citizens the benefits of material prosperity, political liberty, and a wholesome natural equality; and this achievement is a gain, not only to Americans, but to the world and to civilization.

National politics have from the start aimed primarily at efficiency — that is, at the successful use of the force resident in the state to accomplish the purposes desired by the Sovereign authority.

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Quote text and notes from Wikiquote: Herbert Croly (page history), available under CC BY-SA 4.0. Source quality and labels are our own summary of what Wikiquote records.