Peter the Great

Modernizer of Russia

Early Modern influential 154 sayings

Sayings by Peter the Great

It is not the size of the dog in the fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog.

Early 18th century — A common proverb, but sometimes attributed to Peter in the context of military resilience.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

I shall make Russia great, even if I have to hang half of it.

Early 18th century — A stark and controversial statement reflecting his ruthless determination to modernize Russia.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

The pen is mightier than the sword, but only if the sword is at the service of the pen.

Early 18th century — A variation of a common saying, emphasizing the power of intellect backed by force.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

I am the head of the church, but I am also a servant of God.

Early 18th century — Reflecting his assertion of state control over the Russian Orthodox Church while maintaining piety.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

I do not know what is good for Russia, but I know what is not.

Early 18th century — A statement on his clear vision for what needed to be changed.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

It is better to err on the side of severity than on the side of leniency.

Early 18th century — Reflecting his often harsh and uncompromising approach to governance.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

I have no fear of consequences, only of inaction.

Early 18th century — Emphasizing his proactive and often aggressive approach to reform.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

We need Europe for a few decades; then we must turn our back on it.

1703 — Remark about Westernization policy
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Drunkenness is the ruin of mankind; it destroys families and states.

1718 — Despite his own notorious drinking habits
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

Let the women see the world, for they have been locked up long enough.

1700 — Edict changing social customs for noblewomen
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

It is a great sin to torture animals without need.

1722 — Remark about animal cruelty
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

I know I have the vices of a man, but I have the virtues of a tsar.

1720 — Self-assessment
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

Why do you come to me? Go to the Senate; they make the laws.

1711 — Response to petitioners
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

A ruler that has only an army has one hand, but he who has a navy has both.

1696 — Justifying naval expansion
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

I shall cut a window through to Europe.

1703 — About founding St. Petersburg
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

Do not spare the ships; they will be built again.

1714 — Naval battle order
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

The beard is a useless burden.

1698 — Justifying beard tax
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

I prefer to have 100,000 enemies abroad than one at home.

1718 — About internal dissent
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The more you beat me, the more I will love you.

1720 — Alleged remark to his mistress
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

We are not in the habit of giving away cities.

1721 — Response to Swedish peace offer
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable