Adlai E. Stevenson II

Adlai E. Stevenson II (1900–1965) was an American politician who served as Governor of Illinois (1949–1953), was the Democratic presidential nominee in 1952 and 1956, and served as U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations (1961–1965). He was known for his eloquence and public speeches; the quoted line exemplifies his emphasis on idealism and public service.