Ambition Quote by George B. Cortelyou
“There was reason for STILLMAN'S EXTREME SECRECY. HE WAS PREPARING TO EXTEND THE CITY BANK'S POWER OVER THE EARTH AND FULLY RECOGNIZED THAT THIS AMBITION WOULD DRAW HIM INTO THE WEB OF INTERNATIONAL COMMERCIAL INTRIGUE AND ESPIONAGE”
About This Quote
Source Historical account: Private correspondence, early 20th century US banking expansion
A powerful figure concealed his true ambitions, fearing that revealing them would entangle him in global intrigue and espionage.
In simple terms: Secrecy can protect but also isolate.
Key Takeaway
Weigh the risks of secrecy against the need for transparency.
Themes
power
secrecy
political intrigue
ambition
espionage
Mood
cautious
tense
Type
political
historical
When to use this quote
- corporate negotiations
- government diplomacy
- intelligence gathering
- risk assessment
Key Concepts
realpolitik
strategic concealment
global finance
Questions to Reflect On
- When is secrecy justified in leadership?
- What are the costs of hidden agendas?
A Different Perspective
Secrecy may breed mistrust and unintended consequences.
