Peace is not made at the council table or by treaties, but in the hearts of men

Peace is not made at the council table or by treaties, but in the hearts of men

Herbert Hoover, the 31st President of the United States, is often remembered for his role in leading the country through the Great Depression. However, his views on peace and diplomacy are equally important aspects of his legacy. Hoover believed that true peace could not be achieved through formal agreements or treaties alone, but rather through a fundamental shift in the hearts and minds of individuals.

The quote, “Peace is not made at the council table or by treaties, but in the hearts of men,” encapsulates Hoover’s belief that lasting peace must come from within. He understood that peace is not simply the absence of war, but a state of harmony and understanding among people. This sentiment is reflected in Hoover’s approach to foreign policy during his presidency.

Hoover was a staunch advocate for disarmament and international cooperation. He believed that by fostering goodwill and understanding between nations, conflicts could be prevented before they escalated into full-blown wars. Hoover’s efforts to promote peace through diplomacy were evident in his support for the Kellogg-Briand Pact, a treaty that renounced war as a means of settling disputes between countries.

Hoover’s belief in the power of individual conscience to shape the course of history was also reflected in his humanitarian efforts. Following World War I, Hoover led the American Relief Administration, which provided food and aid to war-torn Europe. He later spearheaded relief efforts during the Great Depression, earning him the nickname “The Great Humanitarian.”

In his post-presidential years, Hoover continued to advocate for peace and humanitarian causes. He served as chairman of the Commission for the Organization of Peace, where he worked to promote international cooperation and prevent future conflicts. Hoover’s commitment to peace was rooted in his belief that true change must come from within, from the hearts of individuals who are willing to work towards a common goal of understanding and harmony.