"In war one must lean on an obstacle in order to overcome it."

Napoleon I of France Politics See all quotes by Napoleon I of France →

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More by Napoleon I of France

“A constitution should be framed so as not to impede the action of government, nor force the government to its violation.”

“Obedience to public authority ought not to be based either on ignorance or stupidity.”

“The superior man is never in anyone's way.”

“Tristan is very idle. He confessed to the Emperor that he did not work every day. "Do you not eat every day?" said the Emperor to him; "Yes, Sire." "Well, then, you ought to work every day; no one should eat who does not work." "Oh! if that be the case, I will work every day," said the child, quickly. "Such is the influence of the belly," said the Emperor, tapping that of little Tristan. "It is hunger that makes the world move.”

“Never march by flank in front of an army in position. This principle is absolute.”

“England will repent of bringing the Russians so far: they will deprive her of India.”

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