This accession of territory affirms forever the power of the United States, and I have given England a maritime rival who sooner or later will humble her pride.

Half of the people in the world are below average.

One must indeed be ignorant of the methods of genius to suppose that it allows itself to be cramped by forms. Forms are for mediocrity, and it is fortunate that mediocrity can act only according to routine. Ability takes its flight unhindered.

Power is my mistress. I have worked too hard at her conquest to allow anyone to take her away from me.

What is history but a fable agreed upon?

The most desirable quality in a soldier is constancy in the support of fatigue; valor is only secondary.

Soldiers generally win battles; generals get credit for them.