In seasons of tumult and discord bad men have most power; mental and moral excellence require peace and quietness.
TacitusThis I regard as history's highest function, to let no worthy action be uncommemorated, and to hold out the reprobation of posterity as a terror to evil words and deeds.
TacitusThe lust of dominion burns with a flame so fierce as to overpower all other affections of the human breast.
TacitusThere was more courage in bearing trouble than in escaping from it; the brave and the energetic cling to hope, even in spite of fortune; the cowardly and the indolent are hurried by their fears,' said Plotius Firmus, Roman Praetorian Guard.
TacitusThe repose of nations cannot be secure without arms, armies cannot be maintained without pay, nor can the pay be produced without taxes
TacitusSo true is it that all transactions of preeminent importance are wrapt in doubt and obscurity; while some hold for certain facts the most precarious hearsays, others turn facts into falsehood; and both are exaggerated by posterity.
TacitusAugustus gradually increased his powers, taking over those of the senate, the executives and the laws. The aristocracy received wealth and position in proportion to their willingness to accept slavery. The state had been transformed, and the old Roman character gone for ever. Equality among citizens was completely abandoned. All now waited on the imperial command.
TacitusNo one in Germany laughs at vice, nor do they call it the fashion to corrupt and to be corrupted.
TacitusAll ancient history was written with a moral object; the ethical interest predominates almost to the exclusion of all others.
TacitusSo obscure are the greatest events, as some take for granted any hearsay, whatever its source, others turn truth into falsehood, and both errors find encouragement with posterity.
TacitusIn private enterprises men may advance or recede, whereas they who aim at empire have no alternative between the highest success and utter downfall.
Tacitus