Millard Fillmore Famous Quotes

Millard Fillmore was the 13th President of the United States, serving from 1850 to 1853. Although not as well-known as some of his predecessors, Fillmore left a lasting legacy and had some insightful and thought-provoking quotes.

One of Fillmore’s most famous quotes reflects his belief in the power of education. He once said, “The nourishment of the human mind is like the spirit of the plant, which needs the vital air, the wholesome food, and the refreshing dew of heaven for its support.” Fillmore believed that education was crucial for personal and societal growth, and this quote encapsulates his belief in the transformative power of knowledge.

Fillmore’s commitment to justice and equality is also evident in his famous quote, “Religion should never be an excuse to oppress or discriminate against others.” This quote reflects Fillmore’s belief in the separation of church and state and his insistence that all individuals should be treated with fairness and respect, regardless of their religious beliefs.

Another famous quote by Fillmore is, “An honorable defeat is better than a dishonorable victory.” This quote reflects Fillmore’s commitment to integrity and his belief in the importance of principles over short-term gains. Fillmore believed that maintaining one’s honor and moral values was more important than achieving success at any cost.

While he may not be the most well-known President in American history, Millard Fillmore’s famous quotes provide a glimpse into his values and beliefs. His emphasis on education, justice, and integrity continue to resonate today, making his words as relevant as ever.

Millard Fillmore’s Early Life

Millard Fillmore was born on January 7, 1800, in Locke, New York. He was the second of nine children born to Nathaniel Fillmore and Phoebe Millard Fillmore. His father was a farmer who struggled to make ends meet, and Millard had to work from a young age to help support his family.

Despite his humble beginnings, Millard Fillmore had a strong desire for education. He attended a one-room schoolhouse in nearby Moravia, where he developed a love for reading and learning. His thirst for knowledge led him to pursue further education at the New Hope Academy in Skaneateles.

After completing his studies at the academy, Fillmore began to teach school himself. He worked as a teacher in various towns in central New York, including New Hope and Sempronius. During this time, he also studied law and was admitted to the bar in 1823.

Fillmore’s early life was marked by hard work, determination, and a commitment to education. These qualities would serve him well in his future endeavors, including his role as the 13th President of the United States.

Millard Fillmore’s Political Career

Millard Fillmore had a long and successful political career, serving in various roles at both the state and national level. His early political involvement began in his home state of New York, where he was elected to the New York State Assembly in 1828. He would go on to serve three terms in the state legislature, gaining experience and prominence within the Whig Party.

In 1832, Fillmore was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, where he would serve for the next four terms. During his time in the House, Fillmore became known for his support of protective tariffs and infrastructure improvements. He also played a role in the formation of the Compromise of 1850, which aimed to address the growing tensions between slave and free states.

Fillmore’s role in the Compromise of 1850 would prove to be his most significant contribution to national politics. As Vice President under President Zachary Taylor, Fillmore assumed the presidency following Taylor’s death in 1850. He was instrumental in securing the passage of the Compromise, which helped temporarily ease tensions between the North and South.

After leaving office in 1853, Fillmore briefly retired from politics. However, he would make one final foray back into public service in 1856, when he became the nominee of the American Party (also known as the Know-Nothing Party) for the presidency. Though he did not win the election, Fillmore’s candidacy served as a testament to his enduring presence and influence in American politics.

Despite being overshadowed by other presidents, Millard Fillmore’s political career was marked by his dedication to compromise and his commitment to serving the American people. Through his various roles and accomplishments, Fillmore left an indelible mark on the history of the United States.

Fillmore’s Presidency and Accomplishments

Millard Fillmore served as the 13th President of the United States from 1850 to 1853. He assumed office after the death of President Zachary Taylor, becoming the second Vice President to ascend to the presidency due to the death of his predecessor.

During his presidency, Fillmore is best known for signing the Compromise of 1850 into law. This compromise was a series of legislative measures aimed at addressing the growing tensions between the North and the South over the issue of slavery. It included provisions such as the admission of California as a free state, the establishment of popular sovereignty in the territories, and the strengthening of the Fugitive Slave Act. Although the compromise temporarily eased tensions, it ultimately failed to prevent the outbreak of the Civil War.

In addition to the Compromise of 1850, Fillmore’s presidency saw several other significant accomplishments. He dispatched Commodore Matthew Perry on an expedition to Japan, which resulted in the signing of the Treaty of Kanagawa in 1854, opening up trade and diplomatic relations between the United States and Japan. Fillmore also signed the Clayton-Bulwer Treaty with Great Britain in 1850, which aimed to establish the neutrality and maintenance of any future isthmian canal across Central America.

Fillmore also worked to improve the infrastructure of the United States during his presidency. He advocated for the construction of a transcontinental railroad, although this project would not come to fruition until after his presidency. He also signed the Public Land Act of 1851, which aimed to encourage westward expansion and provided a framework for the orderly settlement of public lands.

Despite these accomplishments, Fillmore’s presidency was marked by controversy and political divisiveness. His support for the Compromise of 1850 alienated both Northern and Southern factions, and he failed to secure the Whig Party’s nomination for a second term, ultimately running as the presidential candidate of the Know Nothing Party in 1856.

Overall, Millard Fillmore’s presidency saw the passage of significant legislation and the advancement of American interests abroad. Though often overshadowed by the events leading to the Civil War, Fillmore’s efforts to navigate the divisive issue of slavery and promote economic and diplomatic initiatives left a lasting impact on the nation.

Fillmore’s Views on Slavery

As the 13th President of the United States, Millard Fillmore had a complex and evolving stance on the issue of slavery. Throughout his political career, Fillmore attempted to find a middle ground that would prevent the country from descending into civil war.

Fillmore was a member of the Whig Party, which sought to avoid taking a firm stance on the issue of slavery. However, as tensions grew between the North and South, Fillmore could not avoid addressing the issue.

Fillmore believed in preserving the Union above all else, even if it meant compromising on the issue of slavery. He supported the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850, which required the return of escaped slaves to their owners, regardless of the laws in the state where they were found. Fillmore saw this as a way to maintain the peace and prevent the dissolution of the Union.

Despite his reluctant support for the Fugitive Slave Act, Fillmore did not actively support the expansion of slavery into new territories. He advocated for the idea of popular sovereignty, which allowed the residents of each territory to decide for themselves whether or not to allow slavery. This stance was viewed as a compromise between the pro-slavery and anti-slavery factions.

However, Fillmore’s attempts at compromise were met with criticism from both sides. Abolitionists saw his support for the Fugitive Slave Act as a betrayal of their cause, while pro-slavery advocates believed he did not go far enough to protect their interests.

In the end, Fillmore’s attempts to find a middle ground on the issue of slavery were ultimately unsuccessful. The country continued to be divided, and the issue of slavery would eventually lead to the outbreak of the Civil War just a few years after Fillmore left office.

Fillmore’s complex and evolving views on slavery demonstrate the difficulties faced by politicians during this turbulent time in American history. Despite his efforts, Fillmore was unable to prevent the country from being torn apart by the issue of slavery.

Famous Quotes by Millard Fillmore on Leadership

“The man who can preserve his honesty unsullied amidst the corruptions of this corrupt age, must possess a rare and extraordinary character.”

“There is no danger I apprehend so much as the consolidation of our Federal Government by the supremacy of the judiciary. I think this is very near taking a place of that character and if it does our Government ceases to be.”

“Let us remember that revolutions do not always establish freedom. Our own free institutions were not the offspring of our Revolution.”

“The Constitution was the result of the accumulated wisdom and experience of many minds and long years.”

“The man who can preserve his honesty unsullied amidst the corruptions of this corrupt age, must possess a rare and extraordinary character.”

“The government should not be guided by temporary excitement, but by sober second thought.”

“The despotism of the many is more to be feared than the despotism of a single tyrant.”

“May we not succumb to feelings of revenge and retaliation. If we ween to revenge, blood for blood, vengeance belongs to the Lord.”

“It is not strange…to mistake change for progress.”

“The ground of liberty is to be gained by inches, and we must be contented to secure what we can get from time to time and eternally press forward for what is yet to get.”

“It is not merely for today, but for all time to come that we should perpetuate for our children’s children this great and free government, which we have enjoyed all our lives.”

Millard Fillmore’s Legacy and Impact

Millard Fillmore, the 13th President of the United States, left a lasting legacy and had a significant impact on the history of the nation. Here are some key points that highlight his contributions:

• Compromise of 1850: Fillmore played a crucial role in the passage of the Compromise of 1850, which aimed to resolve the contentious issue of slavery in the territories acquired from Mexico. His leadership and support helped secure the passage of this landmark legislation.
• Foreign Relations: Fillmore’s presidency saw advancements in foreign relations, particularly with Japan. He sent Commodore Matthew C. Perry to negotiate a treaty, resulting in the opening of trade between the two countries.
• Economic Policies: Fillmore advocated for protective tariffs and improvements in infrastructure, including the construction of railroads and canals. These initiatives aimed to boost the American economy and promote industrialization.
• Education and Libraries: Fillmore was a strong proponent of education and worked to improve access to public libraries. He established the first White House library and encouraged the growth of educational institutions throughout the country.
• Presidential Leadership: Despite facing criticism during his presidency, Fillmore demonstrated strong leadership and a commitment to upholding the Constitution. He navigated challenging political landscapes and made difficult decisions in the best interest of the nation.

Overall, Millard Fillmore’s presidency left a lasting impact on American history. His contributions to legislation, foreign relations, economic policies, education, and leadership continue to shape the nation’s development and progress.

Millard Fillmore’s Personal Life and Family

Millard Fillmore was born on January 7, 1800, in a log cabin in the Finger Lakes region of New York. He was the second child of Nathaniel Fillmore and Phoebe Millard Fillmore. Fillmore married his first wife, Abigail Powers, in 1826. They had two children together, Millard Powers Fillmore and Mary Abigail Fillmore.

Tragically, Abigail Powers Fillmore passed away in 1853, while Fillmore was serving as the 13th President of the United States. Fillmore remarried two years later to Caroline Carmichael McIntosh, a wealthy widow. They did not have any additional children.

Millard Fillmore’s family life was marked by tragedy, as his daughter Mary Abigail Fillmore passed away in 1854, just a year after her mother. Despite these hardships, Fillmore remained dedicated to his family and was known for his love and care for his children.

In his later years, Fillmore enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren. He took pleasure in reading, gardening, and playing cards with them. Fillmore also had a strong interest in education and helped found the University at Buffalo, now known as the State University of New York at Buffalo.

Millard Fillmore’s personal life and family played a significant role in shaping his character and presidency. Though he faced personal tragedy, Fillmore remained a devoted husband and father, and his love for his family was a guiding force in his life.

Millard Fillmore’s Final Years and Death

After serving as the 13th President of the United States from 1850 to 1853, Millard Fillmore retired from politics and returned to his hometown of Buffalo, New York. He devoted his final years to various civic and philanthropic efforts, including the founding of the University of Buffalo (now known as the University at Buffalo).

Despite not being active in politics, Fillmore remained engaged in public affairs and openly expressed his opinions on important issues of the time. He notably opposed the expansion of slavery and supported the Union during the American Civil War. His moderate stance and efforts to find compromise solutions earned him respect from both sides of the political spectrum.

However, Fillmore’s health began to decline in his later years. In 1872, he suffered a stroke that left him partially paralyzed, limiting his mobility. Despite this setback, he continued to participate in public events and give occasional speeches.

On March 8, 1874, Millard Fillmore passed away at the age of 74 due to a stroke. His death was mourned by the nation, and numerous tributes were paid to his legacy. Fillmore’s final resting place is in the Forest Lawn Cemetery in Buffalo, New York.

Millard Fillmore’s contributions to the nation and his commitment to public service are remembered to this day. He played a significant role in shaping the history of the United States through his presidency and continued involvement in civic affairs.