Quarantine Speech by Franklin D. Roosevelt

Context

• Date: October 5, 1937
• Location: Chicago
• Occasion: Dedication of a civic project
• Worldwide Context: Increasing international political tension, violations of treaties, and acts of aggression by nations.

Key Themes

Contrast Between Peace and Conflict

• Roosevelt contrasts the peace and prosperity of the United States with chaos and aggression in other parts of the world.

Concerns Over International Lawlessness

• The political situation globally is deteriorating, causing concern for peace-loving nations.
• The Briand-Kellogg Pact, which vowed not to use war to achieve national objectives, is being undermined.
• Unjustified invasions and interference in other nations’ affairs are threatening civilization.

Call for Collective Action

• There is a need for peace-loving nations to unite against violations of treaties and international lawlessness.
• A return to respect for international agreements and national morality is essential.

War Impact and Threats

• Civilian populations, including women and children, are being targeted in acts of aggression.
• War and conflict threaten to destroy cultural and historical treasures.
• American security is not guaranteed if international chaos continues.

Moral Responsibility

• Nations must work together to uphold law and moral principles.
• The integrity of international treaties is vital for global stability.

Economic Considerations

• Many nations are heavily investing in military armaments, diverting funds from development and prosperity.
• The U.S. spends a smaller percentage of its income on armaments, focusing instead on infrastructure and conservation projects.

The Role of the United States

• The U.S. seeks to maintain peace and avoid involvement in war.
• The U.S. must remain vigilant and participate in global efforts to uphold peace.

Appeal to Humanity

• Roosevelt appeals to the moral consciousness of the world to reduce unnecessary suffering in war.
• Proposes that concerted moral protest could influence the reduction of war brutality.

Conclusion

• Roosevelt underscores the importance of international solidarity and the enforcement of international treaties.
• He emphasizes the universal desire for peace and prosperity, urging nations to make positive efforts to maintain global peace.