How we cite our quotes: (Sentence)
Quote #1
So, first of all, let me assert my firm belief that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself—nameless, unreasoning, unjustified terror which paralyzes needed efforts to convert retreat into advance. (5)
Here, President Roosevelt doesn't say that people shouldn't be afraid or that it's cowardly to feel afraid, but he instead focuses on a fear that is common to all people: the fear of fear itself. That feeling of seizing up entirely for no reason. By labeling this fear what it is, he implores Americans everywhere to work to overcome it and avoid getting bogged down right when the country most needs to act.
Quote #2
Compared with the perils which our forefathers conquered because they believed and were not afraid, we have still much to be thankful for. (15)
Yup, even 150 years later, these guys still held a lot of sway over the American people. It's as though FDR is reminding the public of their cool grandparents who were never scared and had to walk to school in the snow uphill—both ways. He's saying, "Yes, it's rough now, but remember our country went through something much scarier, and we made it out okay."