“Where might is mixed with wit, there is too good an accord in a government.”
- September 7, 1533 – March 24, 1603
- English
- Queen of England and Ireland, Monarch
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Quote
“Where might is mixed with wit, there is too good an accord in a government.”
Explanation
In this quote, Elizabeth I identifies the ideal balance in leadership: the union of strength (“might”) and intelligence (“wit”). She suggests that when power is guided by wisdom, the result is not tyranny or recklessness, but harmony and effective governance. This reflects her understanding that brute force alone cannot sustain a just and stable state—it must be tempered by reason, strategy, and sound judgment.
Elizabeth herself embodied this principle throughout her reign. She led with authority, but also with sharp intellect and political savvy, navigating treacherous international diplomacy, religious conflicts, and domestic opposition. Her leadership style combined firm control with calculated decisions, allowing her to maintain both power and popularity. Her words thus reflect not only political philosophy but her personal approach to monarchy.
In modern governance, the quote remains strikingly relevant. It underscores the idea that successful leadership requires more than strength—it demands insight and adaptability. Whether in political office, corporate management, or community leadership, the fusion of competence and courage creates a sustainable and respected authority, one capable of fostering lasting unity and progress.
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