Themistocles

I never learned how to tune a harp, or play upon a lute; but I know how to raise a small and inconsiderable city to glory and greatness.

— Themistocles

May I never sit on a tribunal where my friends shall not find more favor from me than strangers.

— Themistocles

Strike, if you will, but hear.

— Themistocles

For the Athenians command the rest of Greece, I command the Athenians; your mother commands me, and you command your mother.

— Themistocles

I have with me two gods, Persuasion and Compulsion.

— Themistocles

I choose the likely man in preference to the rich man; I want a man without money rather than money without a man.

— Themistocles