Philip II of Spain

Spanish Empire ruler

Early Modern influential 70 sayings

Sayings by Philip II of Spain

The world is full of ingratitude.

c. 1590s — A general lament about human nature.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

I have no time for trifles.

Unknown, but attributed. — Indicating his focus on important matters.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

I would rather die than betray my conscience.

c. 1560s — Expressing his strong moral and religious principles.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

My greatest pleasure is to serve God and my people.

c. 1580s — Stating his primary motivations.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

I have always tried to do what is right, even if it is difficult.

c. 1590s — Reflecting on his efforts to govern justly.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

The burden of empire is heavy.

c. 1580s — Expressing the weight of his responsibilities.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

I am a king, but I am also a man.

c. 1570s — Acknowledging his humanity despite his royal status.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

I have always sought peace, but not at any price.

c. 1580s — Stating his pragmatic approach to foreign relations.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

God has given me this kingdom, and I will defend it with my life.

c. 1560s — Expressing his devotion to his realm and faith.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

I am surrounded by traitors and enemies.

c. 1570s — Expressing paranoia or distrust of those around him.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

My trust is in God alone.

c. 1590s — Reinforcing his religious faith.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

I have always been a solitary man.

c. 1580s — Reflecting on his introverted nature.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

The greatest victory is to overcome oneself.

Unknown, but attributed. — A philosophical reflection on self-mastery.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

I have no desire to be loved, only to be obeyed.

Unknown, but attributed. — A stark statement about his view on kingship.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

I am weary of the world and its follies.

c. 1590s — Expressing fatigue and disillusionment.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

My greatest fear is to displease God.

c. 1580s — Highlighting his profound religious piety.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

I have spent my life in serving God and my country.

c. 1590s — A summary of his life's dedication.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

I have no greater ambition than to preserve the Catholic faith.

c. 1560s — Stating his ultimate political and religious goal.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

I would rather lose my head than my faith.

c. 1560s — An extreme expression of his religious conviction.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

My eyes are always open.

Unknown, but attributed. — Metaphorically indicating his constant vigilance and attention to detail.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable