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On this day, September 2, 1901, VP Teddy Roosevelt first publicly used the phrase "speak softly and carry a big stick."
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page (in 2025)• 1901 – U.S. vice president Theodore Roosevelt first publicly used the phrase "speak softly and carry a big stick"{cartoon pictured} at the Minnesota State Fair, describing his philosophy of negotiating peacefully while simultaneously threatening to use military force.
Editorial cartoon showing Theodore Roosevelt carrying a big stick
Editorial cartoon showing Theodore Roosevelt carrying a big stick