But a conflict of forces requires nothing so much as brave men; and of these, I believe, the larger number is with us, and with those who share our danger.
Source: The Public Orations of Demosthenes, Volume 1
Topic
War is one of the oldest and most terrible of human experiences, and it has produced some of the most searching writing in any language. The quotes gathered here do not glorify conflict — they reckon with it honestly, from the perspectives of soldiers, statesmen, survivors, and those left behind. The range of voices is deliberately wide: the resigned wisdom of those who have seen battle firsthand, the moral fury of pacifists, the cold strategic calculus of those who plan wars from a distance. Together they illuminate why wars begin, what they cost in human terms, and why humanity has so rarely managed to stop starting them. Themes of courage, tragedy, futility, duty, and the enduring hope for peace run through every page. Whether you approach this topic as a student of history, a critic of policy, or simply someone trying to understand the darkest chapters of human behavior, these reflections offer hard-won insight.
But a conflict of forces requires nothing so much as brave men; and of these, I believe, the larger number is with us, and with those who share our danger.
You have a thousand cavalry, and infantry as many as any one can desire, and three hundred ships.
Peace is not mere absence of war, but is a virtue that springs from force of character.
Why, when we have our acknowledged foes, do we seek to procure others?
We must, therefore, take care not to allow the Spartans to attain a formidable degree of strength.
Do not then lay bare the evil condition of Hellas, by calling the powers together when they will not obey, or undertaking a war which you will be unable to carry on.
France is making incredible sacrifices every day.
No effort will be considered too high a price to ensure the triumph of a nobler humanity.
Success is certain when all free peoples are in array against the last convulsions of savagery.