History is the transformation of tumultuous conquerors into silent footnotes.

History is the transformation of tumultuous conquerors into silent footnotes.

The past grows gradually around one, like a placenta for dying.

The past grows gradually around one, like a placenta for dying.

History is just a portrayal of crimes and misfortunes.

History is just a portrayal of crimes and misfortunes.

The past always looks better than it was because it isn't here.

The past always looks better than it was because it isn't here.

I have written too much history to have faith in it; and if anyone thinks I'm wrong, I am inclined read more

I have written too much history to have faith in it; and if anyone thinks I'm wrong, I am inclined to agree with him.

History is philosophy learned from examples.

History is philosophy learned from examples.

How many pens are broken, how many ink bottles consumed, to write about things that have never happened.

How many pens are broken, how many ink bottles consumed, to write about things that have never happened.

The past is a work of art, free of irrelevancies and loose ends.

The past is a work of art, free of irrelevancies and loose ends.

All history . . . is an inarticulate Bible.

All history . . . is an inarticulate Bible.