Quotes by George Washington

"We should not look back unless it is to derive useful lessons from past errors, and for the purpose of profiting by dearly bought experience."

"True friendship is a plant of slow growth, and must undergo and withstand the shocks of adversity, before it is entitled to the appellation."

"Be courteous to all, but intimate with few, and let those few be well tried before you give them your confidence."

"The basis of our political system is the right of the people to make and to alter their constitutions of government."

"Mankind, when left to themselves, are unfit for their own government."

"It will be found an unjust and unwise jealousy to deprive a man of his natural liberty upon the supposition he may abuse it."

"Associate with men of good quality if you esteem your own reputation; for it is better to be alone than in bad company."

"To be prepared for war is one of the most effective means of preserving peace."

"Few men have virtue to withstand the highest bidder."

"Discipline is the soul of an army. It makes small numbers formidable; procures success to the weak, and esteem to all."

"Truth will ultimately prevail where there is pains to bring it to light."

"My first wish is to see this plague of mankind, war, banished from the earth."

"If we desire to avoid insult, we must be able to repel it; if we desire to secure peace, one of the most powerful instruments of our rising prosperity, it must be known, that we are at all times ready for War."

"Laws made by common consent must not be trampled on by individuals."

"Make the most you can of the Indian Hemp seed and sow it everywhere."

"Let your Discourse with Men of Business be Short and Comprehensive."