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Nothing short of self-respect and that justice which is essential to a national character ought to involve us in war; for sure I am, if this country is preserved in tranquillity twenty years longer, it may bid defiance, in a just cause, to any power.

— George Washington

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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)

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

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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.