Once, Abraham Lincoln, the President of the United States, was speaking in Congress. An arrogant senator interrupted Lincoln, saying,
“Don’t speak so loudly, Lincoln. Don’t forget that your father used to make shoes for my family. Remember your place.”
Lincoln replied, “Sir, I know my father used to make shoes for your family, and likely for many others here as well. The way he made shoes, no one else could match his skill. He was a true craftsman. His shoes weren’t merely shoes, he put his whole soul into making them. I want to ask you if you have any complaints about them.
Because I know how to make shoes myself. If you have a complaint, I can make you another pair. But as far as I know, no one has ever complained about my father’s shoes. He was a genius, a master craftsman, and I am proud of my father!”
The arrogant senator fell silent at Lincoln’s reply.
Lincoln continued, “Why are you silent now? You tried to humiliate me, but your small-mindedness has diminished you.”
This exchange is highly regarded in American history. It is said that this speech highlighted the “dignity of labour,” influencing a culture where professions became common surnames, such as Schumacher, Smith, Taylor, Butcher, etc.
Respect for labour is valued in America, contributing to its status as a global superpower.