Educate men without religion and you make of them but clever devils

Educate men without religion and you make of them but clever devils

Arthur Wellesley, also known as the Duke of Wellington, was a prominent British military leader and statesman who played a key role in defeating Napoleon Bonaparte at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815. He was a man of great intelligence and strategic thinking, but he also held strong religious beliefs that guided his actions and decisions.

The quote “Educate men without religion and you make of them but clever devils” is often attributed to Wellington, although its exact origins are unclear. This quote reflects Wellington’s belief in the importance of religion in shaping the moral character of individuals. He believed that without a strong moral compass provided by religion, education alone could lead to individuals using their intelligence for selfish or destructive purposes.

Wellington’s own religious beliefs were deeply ingrained in his character and influenced his actions both on and off the battlefield. He was a devout Anglican who attended church regularly and believed in the importance of living a moral and virtuous life. His faith gave him strength and guidance in times of crisis and helped him make difficult decisions with a sense of duty and honor.