History is neither written nor made without love or hate.
Theodor MommsenRead
An independent state does not pay too dear a price for its independence in accepting the sufferings of war when it cannot avoid them; a state which has lost its independence may find at least some compensation in the fact that its protector procures for it peace with its neighbours.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Independence often comes with hardship, while losing it may offer some peace through protection.
This quote emphasizes the concept that true independence often entails sacrifices and struggles, particularly in the context of war. It suggests that while a free state may endure the pains of conflict for its autonomy, a state that has relinquished its independence might experience a semblance of peace, albeit at the cost of its freedom, through the support of a more powerful protector. This dichotomy raises deep questions about the value and cost of sovereignty versus the safety that can come from alliances or protection.
Themes
IndependenceWarSacrificePeaceFreedomProtection
In practice
Example use cases
A speech on the importance of national sovereignty during a ceremony.
More from Theodor Mommsen
All quotes βThe history of Rome presents various men of greater genius than Scipio Aemilianus, but none equalling him in moral purity, in the utter absence of political selfishness, in generous love of his country, and none, perhaps, to whom destiny has assigned a more tragic part.
Theodor MommsenRead
History has a Nemesis for every sin.
Theodor MommsenRead
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