Peter the Great

Modernizer of Russia

Early Modern influential 154 sayings

Sayings by Peter the Great

I have never spared myself, and I have never spared others.

Early 18th century — Reflecting his demanding nature and high expectations for himself and his subjects.
Controversial Unverifiable

The beard is an unnecessary appendage.

1705 — Justifying his controversial decree on shaving beards.
Controversial Unverifiable

I am not a doctor, but I know how to cure my country.

Early 18th century — Expressing his conviction in his reform policies, even if unpopular.
Controversial Unverifiable

Ignorance and obstinacy are the greatest enemies of the state.

Early 18th century — Highlighting his frustration with traditionalism and lack of education.
Controversial Unverifiable

For you know yourself that, though a thing be good, if it be new, the people will not do it without compulsion.

1700s — On forcing Western reforms on Russia
Controversial Unverifiable

Why do you hesitate? Do you doubt my power? I can make a nobleman out of my groom, but only God can make a groom out of my nobleman.

1700s — To nobles resisting his reforms
Controversial Unverifiable

Drunkenness is the root of all evil.

1710s — Despite his own notorious drinking habits
Controversial Unverifiable

I have not spared and do not spare my life for my fatherland and its people.

1720s — Justifying his harsh rule
Controversial Unverifiable

I can conquer the world, but I cannot conquer my own stubbornness.

Early 18th century — Reported by various biographers, reflecting on his character.
Humorous Unverifiable

I have two hands, and they are both for work.

Early 18th century — A general statement reflecting his work ethic, often quoted by historians.
Humorous Unverifiable

I am not afraid of death, but I would like to live a little longer.

1720s — Attributed to him in his later years.
Humorous Unverifiable

I have left instructions for two things: to make Russia great, and to make myself a good Christian.

1725 — Ascribed to him on his deathbed, though exact wording varies.
Humorous Unverifiable

When you are a great man, you must also be a great butcher.

Early 18th century — A cynical observation on the demands of leadership, reported by contemporaries.
Humorous Unverifiable

I am putting my trust in God and in my cannon.

Early 18th century — A practical and somewhat humorous statement on his military strategy.
Humorous Unverifiable

I have no time for those who say 'I can't'.

Early 18th century — Reflecting his demanding nature and intolerance for incompetence.
Humorous Unverifiable

It is better to have one good admiral than ten bad ones.

Early 18th century — Emphasizing quality over quantity in his naval reforms.
Humorous Unverifiable

I have a mind that is always looking for new things.

Early 18th century — Explaining his constant pursuit of knowledge and innovation.
Humorous Unverifiable

To be a good ruler, one must also be a good servant.

Early 18th century — A statement on the responsibilities of leadership.
Humorous Unverifiable

I am not a doctor, but I can cure some diseases with a good flogging.

Early 18th century — A darkly humorous comment on his preferred method of discipline.
Humorous Unverifiable

We need not only to learn, but also to teach others.

Early 18th century — Advocating for education and the spread of knowledge.
Humorous Unverifiable