Be brave Quote by J. F. C. Fuller
“Jackson possessed the brutality essential in war; Lee did not. He could clasp the hand of a wounded enemy, whilst Jackson ground his teeth and murmured, 'No quarter to the violators of our homes and firesides', and when someone deplored the necessity of destroying so many brave men, he exclaimed: 'No, shoot them all, I do not wish them to be brave.'”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Art of War, 1913
Jackson’s ruthless tactics contrast with Lee’s restraint, emphasizing brutal efficiency in conflict.
In simple terms: Jackson was brutally efficient; Lee was not.
Key Takeaway
Embrace decisive action when necessary.
Themes
war
leadership
morality
strategy
Mood
grim
serious
Type
historical
military
When to use this quote
- battlefield command
- political decision making
- historical analysis
Key Concepts
realism
military ethics
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- Is ruthless efficiency always justified?
- How do moral constraints shape military success?
A Different Perspective
Brutality can erode moral legitimacy and long‑term stability.
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