Vladimir Lenin

The history of all countries shows that the working class exclusively by its own effort is able to develop only trade-union consciousness.

Without a revolutionary theory there cannot be a revolutionary movement.

Capitalists are no more capable of self-sacrifice than a man is capable of lifting himself up by his own bootstraps.

A revolution is impossible without a revolutionary situation; furthermore, not every revolutionary situation leads to revolution.

When there is state there can be no freedom, but when there is freedom there will be no state.

While the State exists there can be no freedom; when there is freedom there will be no State.

If Socialism can only be realized when the intellectual development of all the people permits it, then we shall not see Socialism for at least five hundred years.

If it were necessary to give the briefest possible definition of imperialism, we should have to say that imperialism is the monopoly stage of capitalism.

Every cook has to learn how to govern the state.

No amount of political freedom will satisfy the hungry masses.

Under socialism all will govern in turn and will soon become accustomed to no one governing.

The government is tottering. We must deal it the death blow an any cost. To delay action is the same as death.

It is true that liberty is precious; so precious that it must be carefully rationed.

To rely upon conviction, devotion, and other excellent spiritual qualities; that is not to be taken seriously in politics.

Communism is Soviet power plus the electrification of the whole country.

Crime is a product of social excess.

Our program necessarily includes the propaganda of atheism.

The best way to destroy the capitalist system is to debauch the currency.

The most important thing when ill is to never lose heart.

Democracy is indispensable to socialism.