“If Hitler invaded hell I would make at least a favourable reference to the devil in the House of Commons.”
- November 30, 1874 – January 24, 1965
- British
- Politician, army officer, writer
- As British Prime Minister during World War II, he led the Allied powers to victory
Quote
“If Hitler invaded hell I would make at least a favourable reference to the devil in the House of Commons.”
Explanation
In this famously witty and dramatic quote, Winston Churchill conveys his unwavering commitment to opposing Nazi Germany, even if it meant aligning with unlikely allies. By suggesting that he would praise the devil if Hitler were to invade hell, Churchill emphasizes the importance of standing against Hitler at all costs. The remark highlights Churchill’s pragmatism and his belief that, in the fight against totalitarianism and fascism, all means of resistance should be considered, even if it involves temporary alliances with morally questionable entities.
This quote also reflects Churchill’s rhetorical style, known for its sharp humor and boldness. While he is acknowledging that he might find himself in an awkward position (praising the devil), his primary concern is the greater threat posed by Hitler and Nazi Germany. Churchill’s approach to diplomacy and strategy was often about prioritizing the bigger picture—the defeat of Nazi Germany—over short-term compromises or moral complexities. It was an expression of his single-minded resolve to defend democracy and freedom at all costs.
In a broader sense, the quote speaks to the idea that, in times of great crisis, leaders may be faced with difficult choices and moral compromises in the name of survival and principle. It also emphasizes Churchill’s ability to use humor and exaggeration to convey the seriousness of a situation while still making a memorable statement. The message here is that when confronting an existential threat like Hitler, one must be willing to align with strange allies or take unconventional actions for the greater good.
