Arms Quote by Sallust
“It is always easy enough to take up arms, but very difficult to lay them down; the commencement and the termination of war are notnecessarily in the same hands; even a coward may begin, but the end comes only when the victors are willing.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Jugurthine War by Sallust, 1st century BC
War is easy to start but hard to end; ending depends on victors’ willingness, not just the initiators.
In simple terms: Starting war is easy, ending it is hard.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the cost of conflict and seek peace.
Themes
war
power
responsibility
Mood
somber
reflective
Type
historical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- military leadership
- diplomacy
- conflict resolution
- peace negotiations
Key Concepts
political philosophy
human nature
Questions to Reflect On
- Who decides when war should end?
- How can societies prevent easy escalation?
A Different Perspective
Victory may not guarantee a just or lasting peace.
![“The Romans assisted their allies and friends, and acquired friendships by giving rather than receiving kindness. [Lat., Sociis atque amicis auxilia portabant Romani, magisque dandis quam accipiundis beneficiis amicitias parabant.]” quote by Sallust](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/1da/sallust-4191_allies_the-romans-assisted-their-allies-and-fri_297234.jpg)
