“It requires far more true courage and persevering heroism to carry on a moral war than a physical one.”

— Ernestine Rose, Speech at the Thomas Paine Celebration (January 29, 1855)

About Ernestine Rose

1810 – 1892

Polish-born American suffragist and abolitionist, a leading advocate of women's rights.

“In proportion to power is responsibility.”

“Loyal means to be true to one's highest conviction.”

“It was a great mistake to say that God made man in his image.”

“The better part of valour is discretion; in the which better part I have saved my life.”

“It is curious that physical courage should be so common in the world, and moral courage so rare.”

“Dictators ride to and fro on tigers from which they dare not dismount. And the tigers are getting hungry.”

“Sure I am of this, that you have only to endure to conquer.”

“The superior man, when resting in safety, does not forget that danger may come.”

“There is always a philosophy for lack of courage.”