Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain was an American college professor and Union Army officer during the American Civil War. Known for his heroic actions at the Battle of Gettysburg, Chamberlain was also a prolific speaker and writer. His words continue to inspire and resonate with people today. Here are some of his top quotes that offer nuggets of wisdom, courage, and leadership.
“This is the great reward of service, to live, far out and on, in the life of others; this is the mystery of the Christ, — to give life’s best for such high sake that it shall be found again unto life eternal.”
In these powerful words, Chamberlain encapsulates the essence of selfless service and the beauty of making a lasting impact on others. He believed that true fulfillment comes from dedicating our lives to noble causes and influencing others in a positive way.
“Leadership is not about being in charge. It is about taking care of those in your charge.”
Chamberlain understood that true leadership is not about exerting power or control, but rather about nurturing and protecting those under your responsibility. His words remind us that a good leader is one who prioritizes the well-being and growth of their team.
“We know not of the future, and cannot plan for it much. But we can hold our spirits and our bodies so pure and high, we may cherish such thoughts and ideals, and dream such dreams of lofty purpose, that we can determine and know what manner of men we will be whenever and wherever the hour strikes.”
Chamberlain’s words here speak to the importance of living with integrity and maintaining high moral standards. He encourages us to have a clear sense of purpose and to strive to be the best version of ourselves, no matter the circumstances.
These quotes by Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain serve as powerful reminders of the enduring values of service, leadership, and personal integrity, and they continue to inspire individuals to this day.
Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain: Top Quotes
“We know not of the future, and cannot plan for it much. But we can hold our spirits and our bodies so pure and high, we may cherish such thoughts and ideals, and dream such dreams of lofty purpose, that we can determine and know what manner of men we will be whenever and wherever the hour strikes for our manhood to be tested, that we may be ready to approach the hour with clear conscience unsullied and with dignity of purpose unobstructed.”
– Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain
“Heroism is latent in every human soul – However humble or unknown, they (the veterans) have renounced what are accounted pleasures and cheerfully undertaken all self-denials, privations, toils, dangers, sufferings, sicknesses, mutilations, life-long hurts and losses, death itself – For some great good, dimly seen but dearly held.”
– Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain
“In great deeds something abides. On great fields something stays. Forms change and pass: bodies disappear; but spirits linger, to consecrate ground for the vision-place of souls. And reverent men and women from afar, and generations that know us not and that we know not of, heart-drawn to see where and by whom great things were suffered and done for them, shall come to this deathless field, to ponder and dream; and lo! the shadow of a mighty presence shall wrap them in its bosom, and the power of the vision pass into their souls.”
– Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain
“We were born to die and we die to live. As seedlings of God, we barely blossom on earth; we fully flower in heaven.”
– Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain
“These men here, by their very presence, call up the old days, and the old traditions of that glorious day in May, 1863, when the Sixth Corps went down the turnpike amidst cheers from the men and tears from the women.”
– Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain
Courage and Honor
Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain was known for his unwavering courage and unwavering sense of honor. These traits were exemplified in his actions on the battlefield and in his leadership of his troops.
One of Chamberlain’s most famous quotes about courage is: “Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the assessment that something else is more important than fear.” This quote speaks to Chamberlain’s belief that true courage comes from the ability to overcome fear and act in the face of danger for a greater purpose.
Chamberlain also believed strongly in the importance of honor. He once said: “In great deeds, something abides. On great fields, something stays. Forms change and pass; bodies disappear, but spirits linger, to consecrate ground for the vision-place of souls. And reverent men and women from afar, and generations that know us not and that we know not of, heart-drawn to see where and by whom great things were suffered and done for them, shall come to this deathless field to ponder and dream; And lo! the shadow of a mighty presence shall wrap them in its bosom, and the power of the vision pass into their souls.” This quote reflects Chamberlain’s belief in the lasting impact of honorable actions, and how they inspire future generations.
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“Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the assessment that something else is more important than fear.” |
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“In great deeds, something abides. On great fields, something stays. Forms change and pass; bodies disappear, but spirits linger, to consecrate ground for the vision-place of souls. And reverent men and women from afar, and generations that know us not and that we know not of, heart-drawn to see where and by whom great things were suffered and done for them, shall come to this deathless field to ponder and dream; And lo! the shadow of a mighty presence shall wrap them in its bosom, and the power of the vision pass into their souls.” |
Leadership and Duty
Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain believed that leadership and duty went hand in hand. As a Union Army officer during the American Civil War, Chamberlain was faced with many challenging situations that tested his leadership abilities. He saw leadership as a responsibility and a duty to his men.
“Leadership is a privilege to better the lives of others. It is not an opportunity to satisfy personal ambition,” Chamberlain once said. He understood that being in a position of leadership meant putting the needs of others before his own and making decisions that would benefit the greater good.
Chamberlain viewed duty as something that was inherent in leadership. He believed that leaders had a duty to serve their followers and to lead by example. “The power of noble deeds is to be preserved and passed on to the future,” he said. Chamberlain recognized that the actions of a leader could have a lasting impact and that it was his duty to use his power wisely.
Throughout his military career, Chamberlain demonstrated his unwavering commitment to his duty as a leader. He led his troops with courage and integrity, even in the face of adversity. His actions at the Battle of Gettysburg, where he famously led a successful bayonet charge, are a testament to his leadership and duty.
Chamberlain’s leadership and sense of duty extended beyond the battlefield. After the war, he served as the Governor of Maine and later as the President of Bowdoin College. In these roles, he continued to lead with integrity and a commitment to doing what was right.
Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain’s ideas on leadership and duty continue to resonate today. His belief that leadership is a privilege and a responsibility, and that duty is inherent in leadership, serve as a reminder of the qualities that make a great leader.
Sacrifice and Freedom
Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain, a Union Army officer during the American Civil War, understood the true cost of freedom and the importance of sacrifice. His words continue to resonate today, reminding us of the sacrifices made by those who fought for the freedom we enjoy.
| “We know not of the future, and cannot plan for it much. But we can hold our spirits and our bodies so pure and high, we may cherish such thoughts and such ideals, and dream such dreams of lofty purpose, that we can determine and know what manner of men we will be whenever and wherever the hour strikes that calls to noble action.” | – Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain |
| “It is something great and greatening to cherish an ideal; to act in the light of truth that is far-away and far above; to set aside the near advantage, the momentary pleasure; the snatching of seeming good to self; and to act for remoter ends, for higher good, and for interests other than our own.” | – Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain |
| “In great deeds something abides. On great fields something stays. Forms change and pass; bodies disappear; but spirits linger, to consecrate ground for the vision-place of souls. And reverent men and women from afar, and generations that know us not and that we know not of, heart-drawn to see where and by whom great things were suffered and done for them, shall come to this deathless field, to ponder and dream; and lo! the shadow of a mighty presence shall wrap them in its bosom, and the power of the vision pass into their souls.” | – Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain |
Chamberlain’s words highlight the importance of looking beyond ourselves and sacrificing for the greater good. By holding true to our ideals and acting with noble purpose, we can create a better future for ourselves and others. The sacrifices made by those who came before us should never be forgotten, as they paved the way for the freedom and opportunities we enjoy today.
Brotherhood and Unity
In his speeches and writings, Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain emphasized the importance of brotherhood and unity. He believed that regardless of our differences, we are all part of a greater human family. Chamberlain recognized that true strength lies in our ability to come together and support one another, rather than to tear each other down.
“It is not those who can inflict the most, but those that can suffer the most who will conquer.”
This quote reflects Chamberlain’s belief that true strength is not measured by physical power or dominance, but by the ability to endure and overcome hardships. He understood that unity and solidarity are essential for achieving victory in any endeavor.
“We know not of the future and cannot plan for it much. But we can hold our spirits and our bodies so pure and high, we may cherish such thoughts and ideals, and dream such dreams of lofty purpose, that we can determine and know what manner of men we will be whenever and wherever the hour strikes…”
Chamberlain emphasized the power of positive thinking and the importance of setting high ideals for ourselves. He believed that by striving to be the best version of ourselves, we can overcome any challenges that come our way.
Chamberlain’s quotes on brotherhood and unity continue to inspire us today. They serve as a reminder that when we come together as one, we are capable of achieving great things.
Education and Knowledge
Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain, a Civil War veteran and a respected scholar, believed deeply in the power of education and knowledge. He recognized that a strong education is essential not only for personal growth but also for the betterment of society as a whole.
Chamberlain once said, “In great deeds, something abides. On great fields, something stays. Forms change and pass; bodies disappear, but spirits linger, to consecrate ground for the vision-place of souls. And reverent men and women from afar, and generations that know us not and that we know not of, heart-drawn to see where and by whom great things were suffered and done for them, shall come to this deathless field, to ponder and dream; and lo! the shadow of a mighty presence shall wrap them in its bosom, and the power of the vision pass into their souls.”
Chamberlain’s words highlight the enduring impact of education and knowledge. He believed that through education, individuals can leave behind a lasting legacy, not only through their actions but also by inspiring future generations to strive for greatness.
Furthermore, Chamberlain recognized that education fosters intellectual growth and critical thinking. He once remarked, “An educated mind gives no quarter to false promises and empty rhetoric. It seeks truth, embraces knowledge, and challenges conventional wisdom.”
Chamberlain’s emphasis on the importance of education and knowledge serves as a reminder to us all, encouraging us to embrace learning and seek understanding. In doing so, we can leave a positive mark on the world and pave the way for a brighter future.
History and Legacy
Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain played a crucial role in the American Civil War, particularly during the Battle of Gettysburg. As the commander of the 20th Maine Volunteer Infantry Regiment, he led his men in a heroic defense of Little Round Top, securing a vital position for the Union Army. Chamberlain’s bravery and leadership during this battle earned him a reputation as one of the most respected and decorated officers of the war.
After the Civil War, Chamberlain went on to serve as governor of Maine for four terms. His dedication to upholding the principles of equality and justice earned him the admiration and respect of his constituents. Chamberlain’s commitment to civil rights extended beyond his political career, as he actively advocated for the rights of African Americans and sought to promote equality and reconciliation in a divided nation.
Chamberlain’s legacy is not only defined by his military and political achievements, but also by his contributions to education. As president of Bowdoin College, he worked tirelessly to improve the institution and expand its curriculum. His efforts laid the foundation for the modern liberal arts education that the college is known for today.
The impact of Chamberlain’s actions and beliefs resonated long after his death. He continues to be revered as a symbol of courage, leadership, and integrity. His story serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom and equality, and his legacy stands as an inspiration to future generations.
Faith and Hope
In the darkest of times and the toughest battles, Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain was a steadfast believer in the power of faith and hope. He understood that these qualities were essential for maintaining morale and finding strength in times of adversity.
“In great deeds something abides. On great fields something stays. Forms change and pass; bodies disappear; but spirits linger, to consecrate ground for the vision-place of souls. And reverent men and women from afar, and generations that know us not and that we know not of, heart-drawn to see where and by whom great things were suffered and done for them, shall come to this deathless field, to ponder and dream; and lo! the shadow of a mighty presence shall wrap them in its bosom, and the power of the vision pass into their souls.”
These powerful words spoke to Chamberlain’s unwavering belief that the sacrifices made in battle had a greater purpose. He believed that the spirits of those who gave their lives would continue to inspire and guide future generations.
“In great straits and when hope is small, the boldest measures are the safest.”
Chamberlain understood that in dire situations, it was important to maintain hope and take bold actions. He believed that in times of crisis, it was necessary to go beyond traditional methods and take risks in order to achieve success.
“Remember, we are fighting for this country to remain a united country, not a collection of separate states. It is a fight worth making, even if we are scared.”
Chamberlain believed in the importance of fighting for a unified country. He acknowledged that fear was a part of the battle, but he believed that the cause of preserving the union was worth the fear and sacrifice.
Faith and hope were guiding principles for Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain. He believed in the power of the human spirit and the ability to overcome challenges with unwavering faith and hope in a greater purpose.
Reflection and Inspiration
Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain’s words continue to resonate and inspire people throughout the years. His profound reflections on the nature of war, sacrifice, and honor offer valuable insights into the human experience. Chamberlain’s quotes remind us of the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of adversity. His words encourage us to embrace bravery, integrity, and unwavering determination.
By reflecting on Chamberlain’s quotes, we can find inspiration to lead a life of purpose and meaning. His words serve as a reminder to never give up, even when the odds are stacked against us. Chamberlain’s courage and leadership were exemplified on the battlefield of Gettysburg, and his words continue to inspire countless individuals to follow their principles and make a positive impact on the world.
Chamberlain’s quotes also highlight the power of unity and the importance of working together towards a common goal. His belief in the value of diversity and inclusion serves as a timeless lesson in promoting understanding and embracing different perspectives. Chamberlain’s messages of equality and justice resonate today as we strive for a more inclusive society.
As we contemplate Chamberlain’s quotes, we are reminded of our own potential to make a difference. His stirring words provide the perfect opportunity for self-reflection and encourage us to question our own values and actions. Chamberlain’s quotes challenge us to be better individuals, to stand up for what we believe in, and to never stop fighting for a more just and equitable world.