Augustus Caesar

First Roman Emperor

Ancient influential 122 sayings

Sayings by Augustus Caesar

I have always been a man of temperance, and have avoided excess in food and drink.

Unknown, likely throughout his reign — Suetonius, The Twelve Caesars, 'Augustus' (describing his simple diet)
Humorous Unverifiable

I have always been a man of constancy, and have remained true to my principles.

Unknown — Attributed, reflecting his steadfastness
Humorous Unverifiable

I have always been a man of integrity, and have never betrayed the trust placed in me.

Unknown — Attributed, reflecting his self-perception of honor
Humorous Unverifiable

I have always been a man of patience, and have waited for the opportune moment to act.

Unknown — Attributed, reflecting his strategic approach
Humorous Unverifiable

I have always been a man of humility, and have never forgotten my mortal nature.

Unknown — Attributed, a common paraphrase of his self-deprecating remarks
Humorous Unverifiable

I have always been a man of compassion, and have shown mercy to my enemies.

14 AD — Res Gestae Divi Augusti (claiming to have spared citizens who asked for mercy)
Humorous Unverifiable

I have always been a man of foresight, and have considered the long-term consequences of my actions.

Unknown — Attributed, reflecting his strategic planning
Humorous Unverifiable

I have always been a man of prudence, and have avoided rash decisions.

Unknown — Attributed, reflecting his cautious approach to governance
Humorous Unverifiable

I have always been a man of earnestness, and have taken my duties seriously.

Unknown — Attributed, reflecting his dedication to his role
Humorous Unverifiable

I have always been a man of truth, and have spoken honestly in all things.

Unknown — Attributed, reflecting his public image of sincerity
Humorous Unverifiable

I have always been a man of honor, and have upheld the dignity of the Roman name.

Unknown — Attributed, reflecting his commitment to Roman prestige
Humorous Unverifiable

I have always been a man of virtue, and have striven to live a life of moral excellence.

Unknown — Attributed, reflecting his promotion of Roman virtues
Humorous Unverifiable

I have always been a man of duty, and have placed the interests of the state above my own.

Unknown — Attributed, a core tenet of Roman leadership
Humorous Unverifiable

I have always been a man of principle, and have adhered to the laws of the Republic.

Unknown — Attributed, reflecting his public adherence to legal norms
Humorous Unverifiable

I have always been a man of resolve, and have persevered in the face of adversity.

Unknown — Attributed, reflecting his determination
Humorous Unverifiable

I have always been a man of integrity, and have conducted myself with honesty and fairness.

Unknown — Attributed, reflecting his public image of rectitude
Humorous Unverifiable

I have always been a man of wisdom, and have governed with discernment and sagacity.

Unknown — Attributed, reflecting his reputation as a shrewd leader
Humorous Unverifiable

I had neither father nor mother.

c. 1st century BC — Implied in his self-portrayal, though factually incorrect, to emphasize his self-made image.
Shocking Unverifiable

I preferred to err on the side of caution and justice, rather than on the side of severity.

c. 1st century AD (attributed) — Quoted by Seneca the Younger, De Clementia (On Clemency)
Shocking Unverifiable

Let us make haste to live, for every day is a new life.

Uncertain — Though often attributed, the exact source from Augustus is elusive and debated. More likely a later …
Shocking Unverifiable