Meaning: This quote, "With the Union my best and dearest earthly hopes are entwined," by Franklin Pierce, the 14th President of the United States, reflects the deep sentiment and attachment that many Americans have historically felt towards the concept of the Union. Franklin Pierce, who served as President from 1853 to 1857, expressed his profound connection to the Union, emphasizing its significance as the foundation of his most cherished aspirations and dreams.

The quote encapsulates the prevailing sentiment of the time, where the Union was seen as not just a political and administrative entity but also a symbol of unity, strength, and common purpose. In the mid-19th century, the United States was grappling with deep divisions over issues such as slavery, states' rights, and regional disparities. The quote by Pierce reflects a fervent belief in the Union as a force for good, a source of collective identity, and a protector of cherished values and aspirations.

During Pierce's presidency, the debate over slavery was reaching a boiling point, with tensions between the Northern and Southern states escalating. It was a period of intense political polarization and growing apprehension about the future of the Union. In this context, Pierce's words can be seen as a reaffirmation of his commitment to preserving the Union and finding common ground amid the growing discord.

The quote also highlights the personal and emotional investment that many Americans had in the Union. For Pierce, and for many of his contemporaries, the Union represented not just a political entity but also a shared destiny and a collective identity. The idea of the Union as a source of hope and aspiration speaks to the deeply ingrained belief in the American experiment and the values it represented.

Furthermore, Pierce's words can be interpreted as a call for unity and a reminder of the stakes involved in preserving the Union. At a time when the nation was deeply divided, the quote serves as a poignant expression of the yearning for cohesion and the recognition of the Union as the linchpin of the American experience.

In the broader context of American history, Pierce's quote resonates with the enduring significance of the Union as a unifying force. From the founding of the nation to the present day, the concept of the Union has been a central theme in American political discourse and collective imagination. It has represented the idea of a common purpose, shared values, and a commitment to the greater good.

In conclusion, Franklin Pierce's quote, "With the Union my best and dearest earthly hopes are entwined," encapsulates the profound attachment and emotional investment that many Americans have historically felt towards the Union. It reflects the prevailing sentiment of the mid-19th century, when the nation was grappling with deep divisions and growing tensions. Pierce's words serve as a reminder of the enduring significance of the Union as a unifying force and a source of collective hope and aspiration.