Who said “I have obtained it by God and my sword.”?

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Motto. A published source records them saying or writing it.

SourceLatin family motto; recorded in James Wood, Dictionary of Quotations (1899), p. 355

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“I have obtained it by God and my sword.”
— Motto
Original (Latin)

Per Deum et ferrum obtinui

VerifiedLatin family motto; recorded in James Wood, Dictionary of Quotations (1899), p. 355 · evidenceVictory
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Cite this quote

For academic work, cite the original where you can: Latin family motto; recorded in James Wood, Dictionary of Quotations (1899), p. 355.

APA

Motto (n.d.). I have obtained it by God and my sword. [Quotation]. Famous Quotations Network. Retrieved October 24, 2026, from https://www.famous-quotations.com/quotes/41336-i-have-obtained-it-by-god-and-my/

MLA

Motto. “I have obtained it by God and my sword.” Famous Quotations Network, https://www.famous-quotations.com/quotes/41336-i-have-obtained-it-by-god-and-my/. Accessed 24 Oct. 2026.

Chicago

Motto. “I have obtained it by God and my sword.” Famous Quotations Network. Accessed October 24, 2026. https://www.famous-quotations.com/quotes/41336-i-have-obtained-it-by-god-and-my/.

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Original (Latin)

Hostis honori invidia

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“Rank imposes obligation.”
Original (French)

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