Most history is a record of the triumphs, disasters, and follies of top people. The black hole in it is read more

Most history is a record of the triumphs, disasters, and follies of top people. The black hole in it is the way of life of mute, inglorious men and women who make no nuisance of themselves in the world.

Beware of endeavoring to become a great man in a hurry. One such attempt in ten thousand may succeed. These read more

Beware of endeavoring to become a great man in a hurry. One such attempt in ten thousand may succeed. These are fearful odds.

The past always looks better than it was because it isn't here.

The past always looks better than it was because it isn't here.

They were afraid, never having learned what I taught myself: Defeat the fear of death and welcome the death of read more

They were afraid, never having learned what I taught myself: Defeat the fear of death and welcome the death of fear.

Anecdotes are the gleaming toys of history. The history of mankind is little else than a narrative of designs which read more

Anecdotes are the gleaming toys of history. The history of mankind is little else than a narrative of designs which have failed and hopes that have been disappointed.

Dad, I'm in some trouble. There's been an accident and you're going to hear all sorts of things about me read more

Dad, I'm in some trouble. There's been an accident and you're going to hear all sorts of things about me from now on. Terrible things.

There is properly no history, only biography.

There is properly no history, only biography.

History shows that there are no invincible armies.

History shows that there are no invincible armies.

People that are really very weird can get into sensitive positions and have a tremendous impact on history.

People that are really very weird can get into sensitive positions and have a tremendous impact on history.