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To be prepared for war is one of the most effectual means of preserving peace.

— George Washington

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Notes from Wikiquote

Compare: "Qui desiderat pacem præparet bellum" (translated: "Who would desire peace should be prepared for war"), Vegetius, Rei Militari 3, Prolog.; "In pace, ut sapiens, aptarit idonea bello" (translated: "In peace, as a wise man, he should make suitable preparation for war"), Horace, Book ii. satire ii.

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More quotes by George Washington

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

Observe good faith and justice towards all Nations; cultivate peace and harmony with all.

Farewell Address (1796)

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

Of all the dispositions and habits, which lead to political prosperity, Religion and Morality are indispensable supports.

Farewell Address (1796)

Democratical States must always feel before they can see: it is this that makes their Governments slow, but the people will be right at last.

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Attribution

Quote text and notes from Wikiquote: George Washington (page history), available under CC BY-SA 4.0. Source quality and labels are our own summary of what Wikiquote records.