Meaning: Carry Nation, an American activist, is known for her strong stance against alcohol and her radical methods of protest during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The quote, "I felt invincible. My strength was that of a giant. God was certainly standing by me. I smashed five saloons with rocks before I ever took a hatchet," provides insight into her fearless and determined character. In this quote, Nation expresses her unwavering conviction in her cause and her belief that a higher power was supporting her actions.

Carry Nation was a prominent figure in the temperance movement, which sought to promote abstinence from alcohol and eventually led to the Prohibition era in the United States. She believed that alcohol was the root cause of many societal problems, including poverty, domestic violence, and moral decay. Nation's fervent opposition to alcohol drove her to take extreme measures in her crusade against it.

The quote reflects Nation's sense of empowerment and righteousness as she describes feeling "invincible" and possessing the strength of a "giant." Her belief in divine support further underscores her conviction that her actions were morally justified. This unwavering confidence in her cause propelled her to take drastic measures, as evidenced by her claim that she "smashed five saloons with rocks before [she] ever took a hatchet." This statement highlights the extent of Nation's commitment and the radical nature of her methods.

Nation's reference to smashing saloons with rocks and eventually taking a hatchet symbolizes her direct and forceful approach to combating the perceived evils of alcohol. Her actions were not only bold but also controversial, as they often involved property damage and acts of aggression. However, from her perspective, these actions were necessary to effect change and draw attention to the detrimental effects of alcohol consumption on individuals and society as a whole.

It is important to note that Nation's methods were met with both admiration and criticism during her lifetime. While some praised her for her courage and unwavering dedication to the temperance cause, others condemned her for the destructive nature of her protests. Nevertheless, her actions left a lasting impact on the temperance movement and contributed to the eventual prohibition of alcohol in the United States.

Carry Nation's quote encapsulates the fervor and determination that defined her approach to activism. It provides a glimpse into the mindset of a woman who fervently believed in her cause and was willing to take radical measures to pursue it. By smashing saloons and wielding a hatchet in her campaign against alcohol, Nation carved out a place in history as a fierce and unyielding advocate for temperance. Her legacy serves as a testament to the power of conviction and the impact of individuals who are willing to challenge societal norms in pursuit of a greater good.