The 1962 Elections

The Turning of the Tide

Great historical tides turn slowly; and in the ruck and tumult of conflict, the moment of their turning may well seem but another moment in a long retreat—particularly to men whose lives and fortunes are engaged in the stupendous effort to turn the tide. The historian, soberly judging events in perspective, can see implicit in the inconclusive cannonade of Valmy, the sweep of France over Europe; or in Saratoga, the independence of these United the battles of Midway States; or in and Moscow, the apogee and the coming destruction of the Japanese and German power. But to the men who fought these wars, the turn was unapparent. After these events they felt scarcely less beleaguered than before; and, indeed, long years of fighting lay ahead before the foreshadowed victory was in their hands.

FS

About the Author

Frank S. Meyer

Frank S. Meyer was a senior editor of National Review.

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House of Representatives

The Turning of the Tide

Great historical tides turn slowly; and in the ruck and tumult of conflict, the moment of their turning may well seem but another moment in a long retreat—particularly to men whose lives and fortunes are engaged in the stupendous effort to turn the tide. The historian, soberly judging events in perspective, can see implicit in the inconclusive cannonade of Valmy, the sweep of France over Europe; or in Saratoga, the independence of these United the battles of Midway States; or in and Moscow, the apogee and the coming destruction of the Japanese and German power. But to the men who fought these wars, the turn was unapparent. After these events they felt scarcely less beleaguered than before; and, indeed, long years of fighting lay ahead before the foreshadowed victory was in their hands.