Lew Wallace Quotes

Powerful Lew Wallace for Daily Growth

About Lew Wallace

Lew Wallace (April 10, 1827 – February 7, 1905) was an American soldier, diplomat, lawyer, and prolific novelist, best known for his historical fiction work "Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ." Born in Brookville, Indiana, Wallace showed early promise as a scholar and orator, graduating from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1847. His military career was marked by both controversy and success, culminating in his appointment as Brigadier General during the American Civil War. Wallace's most significant military achievement came at the Battle of Monocacy, where, despite outnumbered and outgunned, he managed to delay Confederate forces long enough for Union troops to fortify Washington D.C. This battle became a turning point in the war, earning Wallace recognition as a formidable military strategist. After the Civil War, Wallace moved into diplomatic service, serving as Minister to Turkey and later Ottoman Syria. It was during this time that he began writing "Ben-Hur." Published in 1880, it quickly became an international phenomenon, winning the first Pulitzer Prize for literature in 1894. The book's enduring popularity led to its adaptation into multiple films, most notably the 1959 epic directed by William Wyler. Despite "Ben-Hur"'s success, Wallace continued to write extensively, producing over a dozen more novels and nonfiction works. His later works, such as "The Fair God," also achieved critical acclaim and popular success. Throughout his life, Wallace was influenced by diverse cultural experiences and historical events, which he skillfully wove into his novels. His legacy endures not only in the pages of his books but also in the cultural narratives that continue to resonate today.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Facts are many, but the one fact that can ferret out all others is: 'It can be proven.'"

Lew Wallace emphasizes the supremacy of verifiable evidence in the pursuit of truth. He suggests that while there may be numerous facts or pieces of information, the most powerful and reliable is one that can be substantiated, or proven, as this fact has the ability to clarify and validate all other potential truths. This quote underscores the importance of critical thinking, evidence-based reasoning, and the acceptance of only verified data in our quest for knowledge and understanding.


"Give us the truth for once in our life-time, and we'll bear it."

This quote suggests that people are willing to endure the hard truth if it means gaining authenticity and understanding. It implies a desire for honesty and transparency in information, relationships, or situations, even when it may be difficult or uncomfortable. The sentiment conveys trust and respect for those who share unvarnished truths, as individuals will appreciate the candor and strive to handle it responsibly.


"What we achieve in wardrobe we achieve in life."

This quote by Lew Wallace suggests that how one manages their wardrobe, or personal appearance, can be a reflection of their approach to life as a whole. A well-organized, thoughtfully curated wardrobe mirrors a person who is mindful, purposeful, and self-aware - much like someone who has direction, discipline, and a sense of style in their life endeavors. In other words, the quote implies that taking care of oneself and being intentional about one's presentation to the world can lead to success in various aspects of life.


"A man's character may be learned from the adjectives which he habitually uses in conversation."

This quote suggests that a person's character can be understood through their choice of words, particularly adjectives, when they speak. The adjectives a person frequently uses might reflect their perspective, values, attitudes, or emotional state. For instance, someone who often uses positive adjectives like 'kind', 'happy', and 'loving' may have a generally optimistic outlook on life, while one who commonly uses negative terms like 'angry', 'bitter', and 'unhappy' might exhibit more negative feelings. Overall, the quote implies that language can provide insight into an individual's personality traits and disposition.


"The reason that truth prevails over error is not because of its beauty, nor yet because of its utility, but solely because it can withstand the fire of discussion without being consumed."

This quote by Lew Wallace emphasizes the resilience and durability of truth amidst challenges, particularly in the crucible of open debate. It suggests that while beauty or usefulness may initially attract us to an idea, it is only truth that can endure scrutiny without being compromised or destroyed. In other words, the ability of a belief or fact to withstand questioning and criticism is a strong indicator of its validity, ultimately leading to its acceptance as the prevailing notion over falsehoods.


The monuments of the nations are all protests against nothingness after death; so are statues and inscriptions; so is history.

- Lew Wallace

Death, Against, Statues, Monuments

Beauty is altogether in the eye of the beholder.

- Lew Wallace

Beauty, Eye, Altogether, Beholder

As a rule, there is no surer way to the dislike of men than to behave well where they have behaved badly.

- Lew Wallace

Dislike, Badly, Behave, Surer

One is never more on trial than in the moment of excessive good fortune.

- Lew Wallace

Never, Fortune, More, Good Fortune

When people are lonely they stoop to any companionship.

- Lew Wallace

Lonely, Companionship, Stoop

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