Men are judged largely by what they value, be it money, friends, power or fame; and their character is determined by their devotion to that which thef prize most highly. In turn, the character of the individual deterrnins the character of a nation. If individuals cherish low ideals and aims, national ideals, aims and life must be low. If individual cherish noble thoughts and aspirations, if they see clearly their duties and privileges, then the safety and prosperity of the nation is as sured. As a part of the nation every man has certain rights which others must respect; but every right, every privilege is accompanied by a corresponding duty and responsibility. At different periods of the world's history different views with regard to man's relation to the State have prevailed. Some countries have believed that the individual existed solely for the State; others, that individual interests were para mount; while others thought that the man and the State were co-ordinate, each dependent upon the other, and each owing certain duties and services to the other. Greece, Rome and other ancient kingdoms believed that the individual existed for the State and refused to allow the great mass of the peo ple any direct share in the government. On the other hand, there has been a time in the develop ment of nearly every nation when the masses have caught the spirit of liberty and when, to secure a share in the govern ment, to galn the right of suffrage, has been the ruling passion. In opposition to the wishes of their rulers, by peti tion, remonstrance, revolt and open defiance, at the cost of many lives, ancient races obtained the right. But how soon its immense cost and value was forgotten. A vote came to be cast for the one who promised the most in return, and these nations, weakened and corrupted, disappeared from among the peoples of the world. France gave the right to vote only after a revolution at the barbarities of which the world still shudders. The ballot was secured in England as the result THE BALLOT.
Significant historical Pennsylvania newspapers