The Latin phrase fortis Fortuna adiuvat, meaning “fortune favors the bold” or “fortune favors the brave,” has a deep-rooted connection with military history. Originating in ancient Rome and now serving as the motto for several US Navy ships, the saying prompts the question: does fortune really favor the courageous?
The origins of fortis Fortuna adiuvat
The phrase fortis Fortuna adiuvat was initially used in 151 BC by the ancient Roman playwright Terence in his play, Phormio. Adaptations and playful variations of the original phrase were also embraced by other literary figures, including its appearance in Virgil’s renowned poem, the Aeneid.
In the present day, the saying is widely recognized as a motto for various military units, naval vessels, and organizations.
To the ancient Romans, Fortuna was a goddess who represented the concept of fortune. This idea also inspired Pliny the Younger, whose uncle, Pliny the Elder, referenced the phrase to his crew while leading his fleet to investigate the devastating eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD – one of the most lethal volcanic eruptions in European history.
Pliny the Elder urgently sought his friend, Senator Pomponianus, who was trapped in Pompeii after the eruption. “Fortes’ inquit ‘fortuna iuvat: Pomponianum pete,” he said to his men, meaning “fortune favors the brave: head of Pomponainus.” Tragically, Pliny perished during the mission.
Who uses the motto?
Fortis Fortuna adiuvat is the motto of several US Navy ships, including the USNS Carl Brashear (T-AKE-7), La Jolla (SSN-701), Florida (SSGN-728), Montpelier (SSN-765) and John S. McCain (DDG-56). A slightly altered version was also the motto of the 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marines, which was deactivated in January 2022.
Variations of the phrase also appear on the wing patch of the 366th Fighter Wing of the US Air Force, and were even displayed on the flag of the Confederate Army’s 7th Alabama Cavalry during the American Civil War. It’s also used throughout the world by universities and military units in Poland, Sri Lanka, South Korea and Denmark, among others.
Outside of the military, fortis Fortuna adiuvat is also a popular saying among civilians. For example, the Turing family has featured it on their family crest since 1316 AD. Their most famous family member was mathematician Alan Turing, who helped build the code-breaking Enigma machine during World War II.
John Wick, a popular fictional character portrayed by actor Keanu Reeves in the John Wick film franchise, also sports a fortes Fortuna juvat tattoo, which has a similar translation to the original Latin phrase.
Does fortune actually favor the bold?
While fortis Fortuna adiuvat has a cool meaning that looks even more impressive on a coat of arms or a tattoo, it sounds more like a conundrum than helpful advice. Is it actually true, and what do fortune and luck have to do with taking direct action?
Making a bold move without hesitation or consideration would likely lead to disaster on the battlefield in most military scenarios. As well, fortune or luck are a probability that can’t be guaranteed, no matter how bold someone is.
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The proverb also directly opposes other popular sayings, such as “good things come to those who wait,” making it hard to pin down exactly when to be bold and when to wait something out. Would Julius Caesar have avoided his fate if he chose to be a little less bold? What would have happened to America during the Second World War if President Franklin D. Roosevelt let his disability stop him?
Regardless of whether its meaning is true or not, this Latin phrase can be understood as a powerful motivator, encouraging one to be brave and daring, rather than stay put on the sidelines.