May this American democracy be the first nation to establish
the foundation of international agreement. May it be the first nation to
proclaim the universality of mankind. May it be the first to upraise the
standard of the Most Great Peace, and through this nation of democracy may
these philanthropic intentions and institutions be spread broadcast throughout
the world. Truly, this is a great and revered nation. Here liberty has reached
its highest degree. The intentions of its people are most praiseworthy. They
are, indeed, worthy of being the first to build the Tabernacle of the Most
Great Peace and proclaim the oneness of mankind. I will supplicate God for assistance
and confirmation in your behalf.
- ‘Abdu’l-Baha (From a talk, Washington DC, 20
April 1912; ‘The Promulgation of Universal Peace: Talks Delivered by
'Abdu'l-Bahá during His Visit to the United States and Canada in 1912’)
