It is a general rule of human nature that people despise those who treat them well, and look up to those who make no concessions.

I am not blaming those who are resolved to rule, only those who show an even greater readiness to submit.

Wars spring from unseen and generally insignificant causes, the first outbreak being often but an explosion of anger.

The strength of an Army lies in strict discipline and undeviating obedience to its officers.

In peace and prosperity states and individuals have better sentiments, because they do not find themselves suddenly confronted with imperious necessities; but war takes away the easy supply of daily wants and so proves a rough master that brings most men's characters to a level with their fortunes

What made the war inevitable was the growth of Athenian power and the fear which this caused in Sparta.

It is men who make a city, not walls or ships.