Meaning: The quote "Conquest is the missionary of valor, and the hard impact of military virtues beats meanness out of the world" is attributed to Walter Bagehot, a British journalist, economist, and essayist who lived in the 19th century. This quote reflects Bagehot's perspective on the transformative power of conquest and military virtues in shaping societies and human behavior.

Bagehot's assertion that conquest serves as the "missionary of valor" implies that through the act of conquering, individuals and societies are inspired to exhibit courage, bravery, and strength. The idea of conquest as a missionary suggests that it spreads these virtues, much like a religious missionary spreads their beliefs. In this context, valor represents not only physical courage in battle but also moral and ethical fortitude in the face of adversity.

Furthermore, Bagehot's statement that "the hard impact of military virtues beats meanness out of the world" suggests that the presence and influence of military virtues, such as discipline, honor, and sacrifice, have the power to eradicate pettiness, selfishness, and moral weakness from society. The notion of "beating meanness out of the world" implies a forceful and transformative process by which these virtues counter and diminish negative traits and behaviors.

It is important to consider the historical context in which Bagehot was writing. The 19th century was a period marked by imperial expansion, colonial conquests, and the spread of militaristic ideologies. Bagehot's views on conquest and military virtues may have been influenced by the prevailing attitudes of his time, which glorified military prowess and the expansion of empires.

From a historical perspective, conquest has often been associated with the spread of cultural, political, and societal influences. The conquering of territories has historically led to the imposition of new systems of governance, language, and belief systems. In this sense, conquest has been a vehicle for the dissemination of values, norms, and traditions, which may include the promotion of certain military virtues.

Bagehot's assertion that conquest serves as a missionary of valor and military virtues beat meanness out of the world can be interpreted in multiple ways. On one hand, it can be seen as a celebration of the positive and transformative aspects of conquest, emphasizing the cultivation of courage, honor, and strength. On the other hand, it may also be viewed as a justification or glorification of the aggressive and coercive nature of conquest, overlooking its destructive and oppressive consequences.

In contemporary discourse, Bagehot's quote may spark debates about the ethical implications of conquest and the role of military virtues in shaping societies. It raises questions about the interplay between power, virtue, and morality, and prompts reflection on the complex legacies of conquest in different parts of the world.

Overall, Bagehot's quote encapsulates a perspective on conquest and military virtues that reflects the attitudes and beliefs of his time. It highlights the perceived transformative power of conquest and the influence of military virtues in shaping human conduct and societal values. However, it also invites critical examination of the historical and ethical implications of conquest and the broader implications of valor and military virtues in human affairs.

In conclusion, Walter Bagehot's quote "Conquest is the missionary of valor, and the hard impact of military virtues beats meanness out of the world" offers a thought-provoking insight into the relationship between conquest, military virtues, and societal transformation. It serves as a starting point for deeper exploration and critical analysis of the complex dynamics of power, virtue, and morality in the context of conquest and human history.