George Bancroft

George Bancroft (October 3, 1800 January 17, 1891) was an American historian and statesman. A native of Worcester, Massachusetts, he was prominent in promoting secondary education both in his home state and at the national level. During his tenure as U.S. Secretary of the Navy, he established the United States Naval Academy at Annapolis in 1845. Among his best-known writings is the massive series History of the United States.

8 Quotes

Beauty is but the sensible image of the Infinite. Like truth and justice it lives within us; like virtue and the moral law it is a companion of the soul.

George Bancroft

Beauty itself is but the sensible image of the infinite.

George Bancroft

Conscience is the mirror of our souls, which represents the errors of our lives in their full shape.

George Bancroft

Dishonesty is so grasping it would deceive God himself, were it possible.

George Bancroft

Avarice is the vice of declining years.

George Bancroft

By common consent gray hairs are a crown of glory; the only object of respect that can never excite envy.

George Bancroft

The public is wiser than the wisest critic.

George Bancroft

In nine times out of ten, the slanderous tongue belongs to a disappointed person.

George Bancroft