Meaning: This quote is attributed to Sam Houston, a prominent political figure in the history of Texas. The quote conveys Houston's refusal to take an oath of allegiance to the Confederacy during the American Civil War. It reflects his deep commitment to the state of Texas and his opposition to the secessionist movement that led to the Civil War.

Sam Houston was a complex and influential figure in Texas history. Born in Virginia in 1793, he later moved to Tennessee and eventually became a key figure in the Texas Revolution, which led to the establishment of the independent Republic of Texas. Houston served as the president of the Republic of Texas and later as a senator before eventually becoming the governor of the state after it was annexed by the United States.

Houston's quote reflects the turmoil and divisiveness that characterized the period leading up to the Civil War. As a staunch Unionist, Houston's refusal to take the oath of allegiance to the Confederacy was a bold and principled stand against the secessionist movement that was gaining momentum in the southern states. His love for Texas and his desire to avoid the devastation of civil strife and bloodshed exemplify his commitment to the well-being of the state and its people.

The quote also highlights the tension between state loyalty and national unity during this tumultuous period in American history. Houston's allegiance to the Constitution of Texas, which he felt had been trampled upon by the secessionist forces, underscores his belief in the principles of the Union and his resistance to the dissolution of the United States.

Houston's stance on the issue of secession ultimately led to his removal from the governorship of Texas. In March 1861, after refusing to take the oath of allegiance to the Confederacy, he was removed from office by the state's secession convention. Despite this, Houston's legacy as a statesman and a leader who stood by his principles remains an important part of Texas history.

The quote attributed to Sam Houston continues to resonate as a powerful statement of dedication to one's state and a principled stand against forces that threaten the unity and well-being of the nation. It serves as a reminder of the complex and deeply personal decisions that individuals faced during a time of great upheaval and division in American history.

In conclusion, Sam Houston's refusal to take the oath of allegiance to the Confederacy and his declaration in the name of the constitution of Texas reflect his unwavering commitment to the state and his opposition to the secessionist movement. His love for Texas and his desire to prevent civil strife and bloodshed demonstrate his dedication to the well-being of the state and its people. This quote stands as a powerful reminder of the complex and tumultuous period in American history and the deeply personal decisions that individuals faced during the Civil War era.