Although he stood only 5'6", Napoleon Bonaparte was one of the most important figures in history. Emperor of France and conqueror of Europe, he created new standards for civil law, the French educational system, and much more. Here are some snippets of his wisdom.
“History is the version of past events that people have decided to agree upon.”
“There is no place in a fanatic’s head where reason can enter.”
“The best way to keep one’s word is not to give it.”
“The most dangerous moment comes with victory.”
“In politics…never retreat, never retract…never admit a mistake.”
“In politics stupidity is not a handicap.”
“A man will fight harder for his interests than for his rights.”
“From sublime to ridiculousness there is only one step.”
“If you wage war, do it energetically and with severity. This is the only way to make it shorter and consequently less inhuman.” “Public morals are the natural complement of all laws: they are by themselves an entire code.”
“An order that can be misunderstood will be misunderstood.”
“If you wish to be a success in the world, promise everything, deliver nothing.”
“Ten people who speak make more noise than ten thousand who are silent.”
“Adversity is the midwife of genius.”
“The word ‘impossible’ is not in my dictionary.”
“Men are moved by only two levers: fear and self-interest.”
“Governments keep their promises only when they are forced, or when it is to their advantage to do so.”
“He who fears being conquered is sure of defeat.”
What do Swiss steak and Russian dressing have in common? Both were invented in the U.S.