Meaning: The quote "Patriotism must be founded on great principals and supported by great virtue" is attributed to Henry St John, 1st Viscount Bolingbroke, an English politician, government official, and political philosopher who lived from 1678 to 1751. The quote encapsulates the idea that true patriotism is not merely a blind adherence to one's country, but rather, it should be rooted in noble principles and upheld by virtuous actions.

Henry St John, also known as Viscount Bolingbroke, was a prominent figure in English politics during the early 18th century. He was a member of the Tory party and served as Secretary at War, Secretary of State, and later as a Viscount in the House of Lords. Bolingbroke was known for his eloquence and intellectual prowess, and he was a key figure in the political and philosophical debates of his time.

The quote reflects Bolingbroke's belief that genuine patriotism goes beyond mere allegiance to one's country; it requires a deep commitment to upholding moral and ethical principles. In his view, patriotism should be informed by a strong sense of virtue and guided by a set of noble ideals. This sentiment aligns with Bolingbroke's broader philosophical outlook, which emphasized the importance of moral and political virtue in the governance of a nation.

When Bolingbroke speaks of "great principals," he is likely referring to the foundational values and beliefs that underpin a nation's identity and character. These principles may include concepts such as justice, liberty, equality, and the rule of law. According to Bolingbroke, true patriotism should be rooted in a sincere dedication to upholding these fundamental principles, even in the face of adversity or challenge.

Furthermore, Bolingbroke's emphasis on "great virtue" underscores the notion that patriotism should be accompanied by virtuous behavior and actions. In his view, genuine love for one's country should manifest in acts of integrity, compassion, and selflessness. By aligning patriotism with virtue, Bolingbroke highlights the ethical dimension of loyalty to one's nation, suggesting that true patriotism involves a commitment to the common good and the well-being of society as a whole.

Bolingbroke's perspective on patriotism resonates with broader discussions about the nature of civic duty and national allegiance. His emphasis on the moral and virtuous aspects of patriotism serves as a reminder that love for one's country should be tempered by a sense of ethical responsibility and a commitment to the greater good. This sentiment has enduring relevance in contemporary debates about the role of citizens in upholding the values and principles of their respective nations.

In conclusion, Henry St John, 1st Viscount Bolingbroke's quote "Patriotism must be founded on great principals and supported by great virtue" encapsulates his belief that true patriotism should be grounded in noble principles and upheld by virtuous actions. His perspective underscores the ethical dimension of loyalty to one's country, emphasizing the importance of aligning patriotism with moral and political virtue. By examining the deeper meaning of patriotism, Bolingbroke's quote offers valuable insights into the nature of civic duty and national allegiance, reminding us that genuine love for one's country should be accompanied by a commitment to upholding moral principles and acting with virtue.