does anyone know a latin quote which would sum up how man can shape the course of history without realising?

Question

A latin quote about a man who has shaped history through his actions. At the time he did not know the impact that his decisions and actions would have on the course of history...an unwitting participant in the development of a county/area with consequences unforseen and not always good...thanks!! :o)

Answer 1

Here are quotes attributed to Marcus Tullius Cicero (106-43 BC):

"Historia est magistra vitae." ("History is life's teacher." or "History is the tutor of life.")

"Historia est testis temporum, lux veritatis, vita memoria, magistra vitae, nuntia vetustatis." ("History is the witness of the times, the light of truth, the life of memory, the teacher.")