In order to govern, the question is not to follow out a more or less valid theory but to build with whatever materials are at hand. The inevitable must be accepted and turned to advantage.

Never depend on the multitude, full of instability and whims; always take precautions against it.

The herd seek out the great, not for their sake but for their influence; and the great welcome them out of vanity or need.

Prussia was hatched from a cannon-ball.

Victory is not always winning the battle...but rising every time you fall.

The greatest ornament of an illustrious life is modesty and humility, which go a great way in the character even of the most exalted princes.

In order to govern, the question is not to follow out a more or less valid theory but to build with whatever materials are at hand. The inevitable must be accepted and turned to advantage.