Saying: Friendship is the only cement that will ever hold the world together
Info
- Title: Friendship is the only cement that will ever hold the world together
- Type: Sayings
- Category: { Friendship }
- Print: Download as PDF for printing
When Woodrow Wilson said, “Friendship is the only cement that will ever hold the world together,” he expressed more than a political idea. His words highlight that true unity is built not through power, but through human relationships. Especially in times of global tension, this quote emphasizes an often overlooked foundation for lasting peace.
Origin and Usage of the Saying
The quote comes from Woodrow Wilson, the 28th President of the United States. He delivered it on July 10, 1918, during a speech at George Washington’s tomb in Mount Vernon. The original wording is: “Friendship is the only cement that will ever hold the world together.” This statement was made in the context of World War I and served as a call for international cooperation. Since then, it has been widely cited in political discourse, essays, and historical reflections on peace.
Meaning and Interpretation of the Saying
Wilson presents friendship as a central element of global and social cohesion. The message is clear: agreements alone are not enough—genuine personal connection is essential. Friendship becomes the stable framework upon which peaceful coexistence can truly rest.
The image of “cement” is telling. Friendship creates bonds between people, fostering trust across differences where political solutions often fail. The quote implies that peace arises not solely from institutions, but from human understanding and mutual respect.
Wilson’s view challenges power-driven world orders. Enduring stability must be grounded in values such as empathy, respect, and voluntary cooperation. These principles are embedded in the nature of true friendship and remain vital in today’s fractured world.
Finally, the saying reframes friendship as a civic and political principle. Taking friendship seriously means recognizing its potential to bridge divides, reduce conflict, and preserve peace. Wilson’s insight invites a reconsideration of human connection—not as sentimentality, but as strategy for a sustainable world.