Julius Caesar — Quotes

“The die is cast.”

— Julius Caesar · Caesar reportedly said this (Alea iacta est) while crossing the Rubicon River in 49 BCE, committing himself to civil war against Pompey and the Senate.

“Veni, vidi, vici.”

— Julius Caesar · Caesar used this phrase (I came, I saw, I conquered) in a message to the Roman Senate describing his swift victory at the Battle of Zela in 47 BCE.

“Et tu, Brute?”

— Julius Caesar · According to historical accounts, Caesar spoke these words (And you, Brutus?) upon recognizing his friend Brutus among his assassins on the Ides of March in 44 BCE.

“Men willingly believe what they wish.”

— Julius Caesar · Caesar observed this about human nature in his writings, reflecting on how people's desires shape their perception of reality during his campaigns.

“It is better to create than to destroy.”

— Julius Caesar · This sentiment aligns with Caesar's philosophy during his governorship of Gaul, where he sought to consolidate power through construction and strategic alliances.

“Cowards die many times before their deaths.”

— Julius Caesar · While popularized by Shakespeare, this reflects Caesar's documented views on courage and duty that he expressed to his legions throughout his military career.

“What we wish, we readily believe, and what we ourselves think, we imagine others think also.”

— Julius Caesar · Caesar wrote this observation about human psychology in his Commentarii de Bello Gallico, his firsthand account of the Gallic Wars.

“The conquest of Gaul has made me famous throughout the world.”

— Julius Caesar · Caesar reflected on his eight-year campaign in Gaul (58-50 BCE), which established his military reputation and provided wealth and loyalty that would shape Roman politics.