Meaning: The quote "There is a measure needing courage to adopt and enforce it, which I believe to be of virtue sufficient to redeem the nation in this its darkest hour: one only; I know of no other to which we may rationally trust for relief from impending dangers without and within" is attributed to Robert Owen. This quote reflects the idea that in times of crisis or difficulty, there is a need for courageous and virtuous action to bring about redemption and relief for a nation facing internal and external threats.

Robert Owen was a Welsh philanthropist and social reformer, known for his efforts to improve working conditions and promote social welfare during the early industrial revolution. His ideas and actions were influential in the development of labor rights and the cooperative movement. The quote can be interpreted as a call to action for leaders and individuals to embrace a courageous and virtuous measure that will bring about positive change and alleviate the challenges faced by the nation.

The phrase "darkest hour" suggests a time of great difficulty and adversity, emphasizing the urgency and seriousness of the situation. In such moments, Owen believed that a particular measure, requiring courage and virtue to adopt and enforce, could serve as a beacon of hope and redemption for the nation. This measure is presented as the singular solution that can be rationally trusted to provide relief from the imminent dangers faced both internally and externally.

Owen's emphasis on courage and virtue underscores the moral and ethical dimensions of the proposed measure. Courage is often associated with the willingness to confront challenges and take bold actions, while virtue speaks to the moral integrity and righteousness of the proposed solution. By highlighting these qualities, Owen underscores the significance of ethical leadership and principled decision-making in times of crisis.

The quote also suggests a sense of urgency and the need for decisive action. The impending dangers "without and within" imply threats from external forces as well as internal divisions or challenges. In this context, the measure advocated by Owen is positioned as the essential means to address and overcome these multifaceted risks, offering a path to national redemption and relief.

While the specific measure referred to in the quote is not explicitly defined, its significance lies in the broader message it conveys. It serves as a call for leaders and individuals to identify and champion courageous and virtuous initiatives that can bring about positive change and alleviate the burdens faced by the nation. Whether in the realm of policy, social reform, or collective action, the quote encourages proactive and principled responses to pressing challenges.

In conclusion, Robert Owen's quote encapsulates a timeless message about the need for courageous and virtuous action in times of national crisis. It underscores the importance of ethical leadership, decisive measures, and the pursuit of positive change as essential elements in redeeming a nation from its darkest hour. As a historical figure known for his progressive ideals, Owen's words continue to resonate as a compelling call to confront challenges with moral courage and principled solutions.