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War Quote by Ralph D. Sawyer

“Sun Tzu said: In the operations of war, where there are in the field a thousand swift chariots, as many heavy chariots, and a hundred thousand mail-clad soldiers, with provisions enough to carry them a thousand Li, the expenditure at home and at the front, including entertainment of guests, small…” quote by Ralph D. Sawyer
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““Sun Tzu said: In the operations of war, where there are in the field a thousand swift chariots, as many heavy chariots, and a hundred thousand mail-clad soldiers, with provisions enough to carry them a thousand Li, the expenditure at home and at the front, including entertainment of guests, small items such as glue and paint, and sums spent on chariots and armour, will reach the total of a thousand ounces of silver per day. Such is the cost of raising an army of 100,000 men.””

Ralph D. Sawyer

About This Quote

Sun Tzu describes the massive daily cost of maintaining a large army, including minor expenses.

In simple terms: Running an army is extremely expensive.

Key Takeaway

Consider hidden costs in large projects.

Themes

logistics economics war strategy

Mood

analytical pragmatic

Type

philosophical advice

When to use this quote

  • budget planning
  • government spending
  • large‑scale events

Key Concepts

historical military finance resource allocation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you account for hidden expenses in your projects?
  • What small costs add up over time?
A Different Perspective

Historical figures may not translate to modern contexts.

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