The more corrupt the republic, the more numerous the laws.

The affairs of the world are no more than so much trickery, and a man who toils for money or honor or whatever else in deference to the wishes of others, rather than because his own desire or needs lead him to do so, will always be a fool.

Out of the crooked timber of humanity no straight thing was ever made.

To be turned from one’s course by men’s opinions, by blame, and by misrepresentation shows a man unfit to hold office.

Let him who desires peace prepare for war.

The spirit of liberty is the spirit which is not too sure it is right.

A riot is at bottom the language of the unheard.

There is no method by which men can be both free and equal.

He may be a patriot for Austria, but the question is whether he is a patriot for me.

Treaties, you see, are like girls and roses: they last while they last.

It is impossible to tell which of the two dispositions we find in men is more harmful in a republic, that which seeks to maintain an established position or that which has none but seeks to acquire it.

I say violence is necessary. It is as American as cherry pie.

I am no courtesan, nor moderator, nor tribune, nor defender of the people: I am myself the people.