If conquerors be regarded as the engine-drivers of History, then the conquerors of thought are perhaps the pointsmen who, less conspicuous to the traveler's eye, determine the direction of the journey.

Summary

This quote suggests that while conquerors are often seen as the main drivers of history, those who conquer through intellectual achievements are equally important. The quote compares conquerors of action to engine-drivers, having a visible impact on the journey of history. In contrast, conquerors of thought are likened to pointsmen, less noticeable but crucial in determining the direction of this journey. It implies that intellectuals and thinkers play a significant role in shaping the course of history, sometimes even more so than those who conquer territory through force.

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