9 George Washington Quotes on Power

George Washington quotes on power

1. Arbitrary power is most easily established on the ruins of liberty abused to licentiousness.

19. Without a decisive naval force we can do nothing definitive. And with it, everything honorable and glorious.

36. All see, and most admire, the glare which hovers round the external trappings of elevated office. To me there is nothing in it, beyond the lustre which may be reflected from its connection with a power of promoting human felicity.

44. Government is not reason, it is not eloquence - it is force! Like fire, it is a dangerous servant and a fearful master. Never for a moment should it be left to irresponsible action.

45. I had rather be in my grave than in my present situation, I had rather be on my farm than be emperor of the world; and yet they charge me with wanting to be a king.

66. Real Patriots, who may resist the intrigues of the favourite, are liable to become suspected and odious; while its tools and dupes usurp the applause and confidence of the people, to surrender their interests. (Note: spelling/capitalization likely original.[2])

85. I had rather be on my farm than be emperor of the world.

106. Occupants of public offices love power and are prone to abuse it.

142. I often say of George Washington that he was one of the few in the whole history of the world who was not carried away by power.

     Attribution disputed; shown as originally published.