Meaning: The quote you provided is from George Norris, a prominent American politician who served as a U.S. Senator from Nebraska. The context of the quote seems to be related to a hypothetical scenario or course of action that is being evaluated by Norris. Let's break down the quote and its potential implications.

Firstly, Norris expresses his judgment about a particular course of action, suggesting that if "we had pursued this course," it would have led to certain consequences. The lack of specific context makes it challenging to pinpoint the exact situation to which Norris is referring. However, we can infer that the course of action being discussed could have had significant implications.

The quote also mentions the potential impact on "the zones" and the actions of England in response to this course of action. It is possible that Norris is discussing a geopolitical or military strategy involving specific zones or regions, and the potential repercussions on England's activities in the North Sea. The mention of "mines" in the North Sea further suggests a strategic or military context, as naval mines are commonly used as defensive measures in maritime warfare.

In analyzing the quote, it is important to consider the historical and political context in which George Norris was active. Born in 1861, Norris was a key figure in American politics during the early to mid-20th century. His career spanned significant events such as World War I, the interwar period, and the lead-up to World War II. As a progressive and independent-minded politician, Norris was known for his principled stances on issues such as isolationism, government reform, and opposition to militarism.

Given Norris's political background and the timing of his career, it is possible that the quote pertains to a specific policy or strategic decision that was being debated during this era. The mention of England and the North Sea suggests a transatlantic or international dimension to the scenario being discussed. It is worth noting that during Norris's tenure in the Senate, the United States grappled with complex foreign policy challenges, including debates over neutrality, trade relations, and military engagements.

In the absence of more specific information about the context of the quote, it is difficult to provide a definitive interpretation. However, the quote reflects Norris's analytical mindset and his willingness to evaluate potential outcomes of different courses of action. His reference to England's actions in response to the hypothetical course suggests a consideration of how international dynamics and alliances could have been affected.

In conclusion, George Norris's quote encapsulates a nuanced assessment of a hypothetical course of action and its potential consequences on geopolitical and military dynamics involving England and the North Sea. While the precise context remains elusive, the quote provides a glimpse into Norris's thought process and strategic outlook during a pivotal period in global history. It serves as a reminder of the complex and multifaceted nature of international relations and the considerations that leaders like Norris grappled with in navigating the challenges of their time.

I hope this analysis provides helpful insight into the quote and its potential implications. If you have further information or specific details about the context of the quote, feel free to share, and I can provide additional analysis.