"A great empire, like a great cake, is most easily diminished at the edges"

This quote by Benjamin Franklin is a metaphor for the idea that a large empire or country is most susceptible at its borders. It suggests that a powerful country can be deteriorated by external forces, such as other countries or groups, if it does not safeguard its borders. This is due to the fact that the edges of a cake are the most exposed and susceptible parts, and similarly, the edges of a country are the most exposed and vulnerable parts. The quote suggests that a nation should be watchful in protecting its borders in order to remain strong and powerful. It also suggests that a country must not overextend itself, as this can cause a weakening of its power. Eventually, this quote works as a pointer that a nation need to know its vulnerabilities and take actions to protect itself in order to remain strong and powerful.