Quote by A. J. P. Taylor
In my opinion, most of the great men of the past were only there for the beer --the wealth, prestige and grandeur that went with the power.
Summary
This quote implies that many renowned figures throughout history, who are often celebrated for their greatness, were primarily motivated by personal gain rather than noble intentions. The suggestion is that these individuals sought power, wealth, and influence that came with their position rather than actively seeking to create a positive impact on society. The quote challenges the notion of these individuals as truly altruistic or inherently virtuous, emphasizing the allure of material benefits associated with positions of authority and importance.