The mission of the United States is one of benevolent assimilation.

Meaning of the quote

The United States wanted to help and guide other countries and people, but in a kind and caring way, not by forcing them to do things our way. The government believed that America should spread its beliefs and way of life to other parts of the world, but do it gently and with good intentions, not through violence or threats.

About William McKinley

William McKinley was the 25th president of the United States, serving from 1897 until his assassination in 1901. He led the Republican Party to dominance, oversaw victory in the Spanish-American War, and promoted economic prosperity through protectionist policies like the Dingley Tariff.

More about the author

More quotes from William McKinley

We need Hawaii just as much and a good deal more than we did California. It is Manifest Destiny.

William McKinley

president of the United States from 1897 to 1901

In the time of darkest defeat, victory may be nearest.

William McKinley

president of the United States from 1897 to 1901

War should never be entered upon until every agency of peace has failed.

William McKinley

president of the United States from 1897 to 1901

The free man cannot be long an ignorant man.

William McKinley

president of the United States from 1897 to 1901

The mission of the United States is one of benevolent assimilation.

William McKinley

president of the United States from 1897 to 1901

Cuba ought to be free and independent, and the government should be turned over to the Cuban people.

William McKinley

president of the United States from 1897 to 1901

I am a tariff man, standing on a tariff platform.

William McKinley

president of the United States from 1897 to 1901

I have never been in doubt since I was old enough to think intelligently that I would someday be made president.

William McKinley

president of the United States from 1897 to 1901

That’s all a man can hope for during his lifetime – to set an example – and when he is dead, to be an inspiration for history.

William McKinley

president of the United States from 1897 to 1901

Our differences are policies; our agreements, principles.

William McKinley

president of the United States from 1897 to 1901

Expositions are the timekeepers of progress.

William McKinley

president of the United States from 1897 to 1901

Let us ever remember that our interest is in concord, not in conflict; and that our real eminence rests in the victories of peace, not those of war.

William McKinley

president of the United States from 1897 to 1901