History should not be left to the historians. Rather, be like Churchill. Make history, and then write it.

Ferdinand Marcos’s quote underscores his belief that history should be shaped actively by leaders, not merely studied or recorded by historians. By invoking Winston Churchill, who was both a statesman and a writer, Marcos suggests that true influence comes from both making history through action and then writing it, thereby controlling the narrative. His words highlight the dual power of leadership and storytelling in shaping how future generations understand the past.

The meaning of the quote lies in its view of history as something dynamic and contested. Marcos implies that those who act decisively in politics, war, or nation-building have the opportunity not only to influence events but also to frame their legacy through written accounts. This reflects an awareness that history is not neutral; it can be shaped by those who document it, often to reinforce their achievements and minimize their failures.

The origin of this quote comes from Marcos’s own position as President of the Philippines (1965–1986). His long rule, marked by martial law, economic reforms, and widespread allegations of corruption and authoritarianism, made him deeply conscious of how history would judge him. Like Churchill, whom he admired, Marcos sought to craft his own narrative through speeches, writings, and propaganda, ensuring that his version of history would influence public memory.

Ultimately, Marcos’s statement is both a reflection of ambition and a cautionary reminder. On one hand, it acknowledges the power of leaders to shape both events and their interpretation. On the other, it exposes the risks of letting history be written primarily by those in power, who may distort or manipulate it. His quote reveals the enduring struggle between lived reality and recorded memory in the construction of history.