"For in a republic, who is "The Country"?

"For in a republic, who is "The Country"? Is it the government which is for the moment in the saddle? Why, the government is merely a servant - merely a temporary servant; it cannot be its prerogative to determine what is right and what is wrong, and decide who is a patriot and who isn't. It's function is to obey orders, not originate them. Who, then, is "The Country"? In a monarchy, the king and his family are the country; in a republic it is the common voice of the people. Each of you, for himself, by himself and on his own responsibility, must speak. And it is a solemn and weighty responsibility, and not lightly to be flung aside at the bullying of the pulpit, press, government, or the empty catchphrases of politicians. Each must for himself alone decide what is right and what is wrong, and which course is patriotic and which isn't...to decide against your convictions is to an unqualified and inexcusable traitor, both to yourself and to your country, let men label you as they may. If you alone of all the nations shall decide one way, and that way be the right way according to your convictions of right, you have done your duty by yourself and by your country - hold up your head. You have nothing to be ashamed of."

Mark Twain


Sent in by Nate Jordon.