Meaning: This quote by Martin Van Buren, the eighth President of the United States, reflects on the nature of leadership and the power of mobilizing the masses to bring about significant change. Van Buren's words emphasize the distinction between two approaches to effecting change: one that relies on influencing a select few in positions of authority and another that focuses on inspiring and mobilizing the broader population.

In the first part of the quote, Van Buren suggests that those who have truly made a lasting impact on the world did not do so by simply gaining the favor of established leaders or elites. Instead, they were able to bring about significant change by capturing the imagination and support of the masses. This sentiment speaks to the idea that true transformative change often comes from the ground up, driven by the collective energy and passion of ordinary people.

Van Buren contrasts these two approaches by characterizing the former as a strategy of intrigue, which he implies is limited in its scope and impact. Gaining the support of chiefs or elites through intrigue may lead to incremental or superficial changes, but it does not have the same potential for profound transformation as the latter approach. In contrast, the second approach, which involves exciting the multitude, is described as the realm of genius and as having the power to bring about transformative change on a grand scale. This distinction underscores the idea that real change comes from the collective power of the people, rather than from the maneuverings of a select few in positions of authority.

At its core, Van Buren's quote captures the essence of grassroots movements and the power of mass mobilization in effecting meaningful change. Throughout history, countless examples support this idea, from civil rights movements to revolutions and social upheavals. Leaders such as Mahatma Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr., and Nelson Mandela are often cited as embodying the spirit of Van Buren's words, as they were able to galvanize and inspire the masses to challenge and change the status quo.

The quote also serves as a reminder of the potential of collective action and the impact of popular movements in shaping the course of history. It emphasizes the role of ordinary individuals in driving social and political change, and highlights the importance of grassroots activism in achieving lasting and significant transformation.

In conclusion, Martin Van Buren's quote encapsulates the idea that real change in the world is not achieved by merely courting the favor of the powerful, but rather by tapping into the energy and passion of the multitude. It underscores the transformative potential of mass mobilization and the power of popular movements in driving meaningful and lasting change. This message continues to resonate as a powerful reminder of the impact of collective action and the role of the people in shaping the course of history.