``In the United States the influence of religion is not confined to
the manners, but shapes the intelligence of the people. Christianity
therefore reigns without obstacle, by universal consequence. The
consequence is, as I have before observed, that every principle in a
moral world is fixed and in force.

I sought for the key to the greatness and genius of America in her
great harbors; her fertile fields and boundless forests; in her rich
mines and vast world commerce; in her universal public school system
and institutions of learning. I sought for it in her democratic
Congress and in her matchless Constitution.

But not until I went into the churches of America and heard her
pulpits flame with righteousness did I understand the secret of her
genius and power. America is great because America is good; and if
America ever ceases to be good, America will cease to be great!'' -de Tocqueville