What phrase did Cato the Elder famously end every speech with?

Cato the Elder is well-known for his phrase "Carthago delenda est," which translates to "Carthage must be destroyed." He used this expression to emphasize his unwavering stance on the necessity of defeating Carthage, especially during the latter parts of the Punic Wars. This catchphrase served as a rallying cry in the Roman Senate, reflecting Cato's belief that the threat posed by Carthage was too significant to overlook and that its destruction was imperative for the safety and stability of Rome. Cato's frequent repetition of this phrase underscored the urgency he felt regarding the issue and demonstrated his commitment to Roman values and interests.

The other phrases listed, while famous in their own contexts, do not pertain to Cato's speeches. "Veni, vidi, vici," attributed to Julius Caesar, means "I came, I saw, I conquered." "Quo vadis?" translates to "Where are you going?" and has biblical references. "Alea iacta est," meaning "The die is cast," is another phrase associated with Caesar, marking a pivotal decision point. Each of these expressions is significant in Roman history, yet they do not reflect Cato’s specific rhetorical style or focus on Car