A collection of quotes from people of the past: messages from famous military commanders and great figures of the world.
Famous Japanese military commanders and world-renowned great figures have left behind many memorable quotes over the course of long history.
In this article, we’ll introduce quotes from such figures of the past!
Among the sayings they left us are words that inspire people living today, expressions that convey stern strength, and insights that can serve as hints when taking action—each filled with various sentiments.
When you’re unsure about something in life or facing a moment that makes you feel like giving up, please take a look at the quotes we introduce.
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Collection of quotes from historical figures: Messages from famous warlords and globally renowned greats (11–20)
Show them how, explain it, let them try, and praise them—otherwise people won’t take action.Isoroku Yamamoto
Isoroku Yamamoto, a military officer who led the Navy and commanded operations such as those in the Pacific War.
These words embody insights unique to someone like him, who led many subordinates and carried out numerous operations.
When motivating people, you must first set an example yourself, then explain it in detail, have the other person try it, and if it goes well, you must praise them.
He said that unless you do this, people will not follow you.
These words reveal Yamamoto’s character, showing how he likely earned his subordinates’ trust through careful instruction.
Unless the whole world becomes happy, individual happiness is impossible.Kenji Miyazawa
These are words by Kenji Miyazawa, the poet and writer of children’s stories famous for the poem “Be Not Defeated by the Rain.” Kenji Miyazawa is also known for works such as Night on the Galactic Railroad, The Restaurant of Many Orders, and Matasaburo of the Wind.
All humans live by supporting one another.
Even if we feel as though we live on our own, it’s hard to completely separate ourselves from others.
In other words, unless those around us are happy and the entire world becomes happy, our own happiness cannot truly exist.
Not only do we want our own happiness, but we also want the people around us and people across the world to be happy—these are words to keep close to heart.
Truly kind people also say tough things, because they know that coddling someone won’t do them any good.Yūsai Hosokawa
Yūsai Hosokawa, a military commander who lived during the Sengoku period and was known as a man of culture.
His words carry the message that friendship is not merely about staying by someone’s side.
Precisely because you truly care about the other person, there are times when you must speak harsh truths.
Even if you know that one remark might make you disliked, you cannot stay silent when you think about the person’s future.
Indulgence may offer temporary comfort, but in the long run it may not be in their best interest.
Yūsai’s words teach us that such resolve is the essence of real kindness: not only offering support, but also guiding someone in the right direction.
They quietly tell us that being such a presence is what it means to be a truly important friend.
If you have a clear dream and a clear goal, the path will surely open up.Mahatma Gandhi

These are the words of Mahatma Gandhi, who, no matter how many times he was imprisoned, upheld nonviolent civil disobedience and led the people toward India’s independence.
This quote gives courage to everyone living and helps them take the first step toward their dreams and goals.
Achieving your dreams and purpose is not an easy journey.
However, if you hold fast to how you want to live and what you want to do, and put in the effort, the path will surely open.
A strong heart that does not give up will become a great force that leads to your future.
No matter how much we study and how diligent we are, things sometimes don’t go well. This is because the time is not yet ripe, so we must all the more encourage ourselves and endure.Eiichi Shibusawa
These are words left by Eiichi Shibusawa, whose portrait was also chosen for the 10,000-yen bill.
No matter how earnestly you pile up your efforts, there are times when things don’t go well.
However, that’s because the time isn’t ripe yet; his teaching is that you must encourage yourself and push through further.
In other words, it means to keep working without giving up until the time is right.
When you experience failure despite your efforts, it’s easy to give up then and there, but if the timing aligns, things should go well.
Let’s keep at it without losing heart until that moment arrives.
Let those who wish to leave, leave.Alexander the Great
Alexander the Great, monarch of the Kingdom of Macedon, one of the empires of ancient Greece.
Often called one of the most successful military commanders in history, Alexander the Great left behind numerous famous sayings.
Among them, this short yet resolute quote was addressed to the many soldiers who were exhausted by the long campaign.
It conveys the meaning: let those who wish to leave, leave; even if our numbers are few, we will continue the campaign with those who still have the will to fight.
Collection of quotes from people of the past. Messages from famous samurai warlords and world-renowned great figures (21–30)
What I’m doing is by no means something big, but it is something necessary.Che Guevara
This is one of the famous quotes left by Che Guevara, a revolutionary from Argentina.
Do you have any goals right now? Whether it’s work, your future, hobbies, or dreams, there are many challenges on the way to achieving big goals.
By overcoming those small challenges and accumulating experience, you move closer to your goal.
The road to achieving your goal can be long, and at times you may feel like your spirit is breaking.
However, those daily challenges are also necessary to reach your goal.
When you feel lost or come to a halt, try to remember these words.


