Themistocles Quotes

Athenian politician and general (c. 524–459 BC)

Add quote

Themistocles (Greek: Θεμιστοκλῆς; "Glory of the Law"; c. 524 – 459 BC) was an Athenian politician and general. He was one of a new breed of non-aristocratic politicians who rose to prominence in the early years of the Athenian democracy. As a politician, Themistocles was a populist, having the support of lower-class Athenians, and generally being at odds with the Athenian nobility. Elected archon in 493 BC, he convinced the polis to increase the naval power of Athens, a recurring theme in his political career. During the first Persian invasion of Greece he fought at the Battle of Marathon.

From: Wikiquote (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Native Name: Θεμιστοκλής‏

Alternative Names: Themistokles

From Wikidata (CC0)

Showing quotes in randomized order to avoid selection bias. Click Popular for most popular quotes.

I never learned how to tune a harp, or play upon a lute; but I know how to raise a small and inconsiderable city to glory and greatness.

I have with me two gods, Persuasion and Compulsion.

I choose the likely man in preference to the rich man; I want a man without money rather than money without a man.

He who controls the sea controls everything.

Strike, if you will, but hear.

For the Athenians command the rest of Greece, I command the Athenians; your mother commands me, and you command your mother.

May I never sit on a tribunal where my friends shall not find more favor from me than strangers.