"To my mind, what we ought to have maintained from the beginning was the strictest neutrality. If we had done this, I do not believe we would have been on the verge of war at the present time"

George William Norris, a popular U.S. political leader understood for his progressive and independent views, revealed a strong stance on non-intervention and neutrality in this quote. The quote reflects his belief that the United States ought to have followed a policy of neutrality to prevent being involved in worldwide disputes, specifically hinting at the tensions leading up to America's involvement in World War I.

At the core of Norris's argument is a review of the U.S. foreign policy of the age, which, in his view, lacked the care and restraint necessary to keep the country at a safe distance from international entanglements. By advocating for "the strictest neutrality", Norris emphasized a diplomatic stance that eschews alliances or actions that could drag the nation into war. His use of "from the start" recommends that, in his viewpoint, policies must be consistently and completely neutral to prevent escalation and participation in external disagreements.

Norris implies that by stopping working to keep neutrality, the U.S. had actually edged perilously near to war. This commentary can be seen as a cautionary reminder of the possible repercussions of interventionist policies. His statement "I do not think we would have been on the edge of war at the present time" highlights his conviction that a different course might have been taken, one that would have maintained peace and avoided the human and economic expenses connected with war.

Reflecting wider sentiments of isolationism common in American politics post-World War I, Norris's words record a desire to concentrate on domestic problems instead of worldwide disputes. His perspective uses an insight into a significant policy argument of the early 20th century, one that resonates in discussions about foreign policy and military engagement to this day.

In summary, George William Norris's quote serves as a plea for neutrality in foreign affairs, rooted in the belief that such a stance would have secured the United States from the brink of warfare and maintained nationwide peace and stability.