War is not an independent phenomenon, but the continuation of politics by different means.

The side that feels the lesser urge for peace will naturally get the better bargain.

Four elements make up the climate of war: danger, exertion, uncertainty and chance.

Great things alone can make a great mind, and petty things will make a petty mind unless a man rejects them as completely alien.

The bloody solution of the crisis, the effort for the destruction of the enemy's forces, is the first-born son of war.

The best strategy is always to be very strong.

Lastly, the great uncertainty of all data in War is a peculiar difficulty, because all action must, to a certain extent, be planned in a mere twilight, which in addition not unfrequently — like the effect of a fog or moonshine — gives to things exaggerated dimensions and an unnatural appearance.