Quotes By George Washington

My observation is that whenever one person is found adequate to the discharge of a duty . . . it is worse executed by two persons, and scarcely done at all if three or more are employed therein.

Let your discourse with men of business be short and comprehensive.

I am persuaded, you will permit me to observe, that the path of true piety is so plain as to require but little political direction.

It may be laid down as a primary position, and the basis of our system, that every citizen who enjoys the protection of a free government, owes not only a proportion of his property, but even of his personal services to the defense of it.

I have always considered marriage as the most interesting event of one's life, the foundation of happiness or misery.

Individuals entering into society, must give up a share of liberty to preserve the rest.

I hold the maxim no less applicable to public than to private affairs, that honesty is always the best policy.

Be not glad at the misfortune of another, though he may be your enemy.

Perseverance and spirit have done wonders in all ages.

Strive not with your superiors in argument, but always submit your judgment to others with modesty.

There is nothing so likely to produce peace as to be well prepared to meet the enemy.

No punishment, in my opinion, is too great, for the man who can build his greatness upon his country's ruin.

A sensible woman can never be happy with a fool.

When we assumed the soldier, we did not lay aside the citizen.

Experience teaches us that it is much easier to prevent an enemy from posting themselves than it is to dislodge them after they have got possession.

We must consult our means rather than our wishes.

Real men despise battle, but will never run from it.

To persevere in one's duty, and be silent is the best answer to calumny.

Decision making, like coffee, needs a cooling process.

I had rather be on my farm than be emperor of the world.