Carthage Quote by Cato the Elder
“Moreover, I consider that Carthage should be destroyed.”
About This Quote
Source Historical text: De Re Publica, Roman Republic, 2nd century BC
He argues that destroying Carthage is necessary, reflecting a strategic, aggressive stance.
In simple terms: He believes Carthage must be destroyed.
Key Takeaway
Consider the consequences of total war.
Themes
war
strategy
political
Mood
historical
analytical
Type
political
military
When to use this quote
- military planning
- state policy
- historical analysis
Key Concepts
destruction
imperialism
security
Questions to Reflect On
- Is total destruction ever justified?
- What are the long‑term effects of such actions?
A Different Perspective
Ignores potential diplomatic solutions.
![“That country [Carthage] was rapidly sinking into the state of barbarism from whence it had been raised by the Phoenician colonies and Roman laws; and every step of intestine discord was marked by some deplorable victory of savage man over civilized society.” quote by Edward Gibbon](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/70c/edward-gibbon-710_barbarism_that-country-carthage-was-rapidly-sinkin_393.jpg)
![“[I]t being reasonable and just, I should have a right to destroy that which threatens me with destruction: for by the fundamental law of nature, man being to be preserved as much as possible, when all cannot be preserved, the safety of the innocent is to be preferred: and one may destroy a man who…” quote by John Locke](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/e7d/john-locke-814_destruction_i-t-being-reasonable-and-just-i-should-h_404829.jpg)
