What do you think Atticus means when he says "Just because we were licked a hundred years before we started is no reason for us to not try to win"?
When Atticus says "Just because we were licked a hundred years before we started is no reason for us to not try to win," he is expressing his belief that the outcome of a historical injustice or defeat does not justify giving up on the pursuit of justice or the effort to make a positive change.
To understand the meaning of Atticus' words, it is helpful to have some context. This quote is from Harper Lee's novel "To Kill a Mockingbird," where Atticus Finch addresses his children, Scout and Jem, after their experiences witnessing racism and injustice during the trial of Tom Robinson, a black man falsely accused of .
Atticus is trying to teach his children about the value of standing up for what is right, even when it seems like the odds are stacked against them. By mentioning being "licked a hundred years before," he is referring to the historical legacy of racism and injustice that has plagued the South for a long time. Despite this historical context, Atticus emphasizes the importance of continuing to fight for justice, as there should be no reason to be discouraged or deterred from pursuing a better future.
In essence, Atticus is urging Scout and Jem (as well as readers) to have hope, to maintain their integrity, and to never give up on striving for a fair and just society, even if the path is difficult or the outcome uncertain. He wants them to understand that the mistakes and failures of the past should not stop them from trying to make a positive difference in the present and future.