Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb ... Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent.

Leadership is a series of behaviors rather than a role for heroes.

You're not to be so blind with patriotism that you can't face reality. Wrong is wrong, no matter who does it or says it.

If I have to beat you up to keep you safe, that's just what I'll do. It's this kind of regard for others that makes me believe I'd be a good politician.

I never did give anybody hell. I just told the truth and they thought it was hell.

Without free, self-respecting, and autonomous citizens there can be no free and independent nations. Without internal peace, that is, peace among citizens and between the citizens and the state, there can be no guarantee of external peace.