Quotes on Art Of War

If you are far from the enemy, make him believe you are near.

Could the peaceable principle of the Quakers be universally established, arms and the art of war would be wholly extirpated: But we live not in a world of angels...I am thus far a Quaker, that I would gladly agree with all the world to lay aside the use of arms, and settle matters by negotiation: but unless the whole will, the matter ends, and I take up my musket and thank Heaven He has put it in my power.

The man who will use his skill and constructive imagination to see how much he can give for a dollar, instead of how little he can give for a dollar, is bound to succeed.

Rely not on the likelihood of the enemy's not coming, but on our own readiness to receive him

He who knows his enemy and himself well will not be defeated easily.

At first, then, exhibit the coyness of a maiden, until the enemy gives you an opening; afterwards emulate the rapidity of a running hare, and it will be too late for the enemy to oppose you.

The opportunity of defeating the enemy is provided by the enemy himself.

It is much better to tempt fortune where it can favor you than to see your certain ruin by not tempting it.

If fighting is sure to result in victory, then you must fight.

I started to make a study of the art of war and revolution and, whilst abroad, underwent a course in military training. If there was to be guerrilla warfare, I wanted to be able to stand and fight with my people and to share the hazards of war with them.

The enlightened ruler is heedful, and the good general full of caution.

It is only one who is thoroughly acquainted with the evils of war that can thoroughly understand the profitable way of carrying it on.

A prince never lacks legitimate reasons to break his promise.

The quality of decision is like the well-timed swoop of a falcon which enables it to strike and destroy its victim.

Management of many is the same as management of few. It is a matter of organization.

A leader leads by example not by force.

It is the rule in war, if ten times the enemy's strength, surround them; if five times, attack them; if double, be able to divide them; if equal, engage them; if fewer, defend against them; if weaker, be able to avoid them.

What is essential in war is victory, not prolonged operations.

Generally in war the best policy is to take a state intact; to ruin it is inferior to this.

He whose ranks are united in purpose will be victorious.

When I have won a victory I do not repeat my tactics but respond to circumstances in an infinite variety of ways.