“Discipline is the soul of an army. It makes small numbers formidable; procures success to the weak, and esteem to all.”

— George Washington, Letter of Instructions to the Captains of the Virginia Regiments (29 July 1759)

About George Washington

1732 – 1799

First President of the United States and commander of the Continental Army.

“If new difficulties arise, we must only put forth new exertions and proportion our efforts to the exigency of the times.”

“Nothing is a greater stranger to my breast, or a sin that my soul more abhors, than that black and detestable one, ingratitude.”

“Every post is honorable in which a man can serve his country.”

“The long, dull monotonous years of middle-aged prosperity or middle-aged adversity are excellent campaigning weather.”

“In all things success depends on previous preparation, and without such previous preparation there is sure to be failure.”

“I had not achieved a success; but I provoked an uproar; and the sensation was so agreeable that I resolved to try again.”

“Everyone can rise above their circumstances and achieve success if they are dedicated to and passionate about what they do.”

“When intelligent people pride themselves on not understanding, it is quite natural they should succeed better than fools.”

“Cunning and deceit will every time serve a man better than force to rise from a base condition to great fortune.”