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About this quote

What does it mean?
Governing the world inevitably involves violence and conflict.
In plain terms
Ruling always requires bloodshed and force.
What can you take from it?
Expect conflict when pursuing power or order.

Where it applies

  • political strategy
  • historical analysis
  • leadership training

Putting it to work

  • anticipate resistance
  • plan for security
  • weigh costs of rule

Questions to consider

  • Is violence necessary for order?
  • Can power exist without force?

Another view

Peaceful transitions and diplomacy can reduce bloodshed.

More from Andrew Jackson

  1. Never take counsel of your fears.

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  2. One man with courage makes a majority.

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  3. Any man worth his salt will stick up for what he believes right, but it takes a slightly better man to acknowledge instantly and without reservation that he is…

    Permalink to quote #26

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