Give it only the fulcrum of plymouth rock, an idea will upheave the continent

Give it only the fulcrum of plymouth rock, an idea will upheave the continent

Wendell Phillips was a prominent American abolitionist, lawyer, and orator who played a significant role in the fight against slavery in the United States. He was known for his powerful speeches and unwavering commitment to the cause of freedom and equality for all people. One of his most famous quotes is, “Give it only the fulcrum of Plymouth Rock, an idea will upheave the continent.”

This quote speaks to the power of ideas and the impact they can have on society. Plymouth Rock is a symbol of the founding of America, and by using it as a metaphorical fulcrum, Phillips is suggesting that a single idea, when properly leveraged, can have a transformative effect on the entire continent. In this case, the idea he is referring to is the abolition of slavery and the fight for equality and justice for all people.

Phillips believed that ideas have the power to change the world, and he dedicated his life to spreading the idea of freedom and equality. Through his speeches and writings, he inspired countless people to join the abolitionist movement and work towards a more just and equitable society. His words were like a lever, lifting up the hearts and minds of those who heard them and inspiring them to take action.

The quote also speaks to the importance of taking a stand and fighting for what is right, even in the face of overwhelming opposition. Phillips was a fearless advocate for the abolition of slavery, even when it was a deeply unpopular position to hold. He knew that he was fighting against powerful forces, but he also knew that the power of his ideas could ultimately prevail.