In 'War Is A Racket,' Brigadier General Smedley D. Butler unveils the harsh truths behind the motivations for war, painting it not as a noble endeavor but a profitable business venture for a select few. With piercing insight drawn from his own experiences, Butler exposes how militarism exploits soldiers and civilians alike. This provocative text challenges the glorified narratives of war, arguing that conflicts are often instigated for economic gain rather than justice. Butler's bold declaration that 'war is a racket' invites readers to reconsider the morality of military engagement and its true beneficiaries. Discover the shocking realities behind the battleground and the true costs of war in this eye-opening read.
By Smedley D. Butler
Published: 2018
"War is a racket. It always has been. It is possibly the oldest, easily the most profitable, and certainly the most vicious."
"War is a Racket" is marine general, Smedley Butler's classic treatise on why wars are conducted, who profits from them, and who pays the price. Few people are as qualified as General Butler to advance the argument encapsulated in his book's sensational title. When "War is a Racket" was first published in 1935, Butler was the most decorated American soldier of his time. He had lead several successful military operations in the Caribbean and in Central America, as well as in Europe during the First World War. Despite his success and his heroic status, however, Butler came away from these experiences with a deeply troubled view of both the purpose and the results of warfare.
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“War is a racket. It always has been. It is possibly the oldest, easily the most profitable, and certainly the most vicious.”
War Is A Racket
By Smedley D. Butler
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Smedley D. Butler was a prominent American military officer and author, best known for his outspoken critiques of U.S. foreign policy and military interventions. He served in the Marine Corps for over 30 years, achieving the rank of Major General and earning two Medals of Honor for his bravery in combat. Butler's notable works include 'War Is a Racket,' where he argues that war benefits a select few while costing millions of lives, and 'The Death of the American Legion,' in which he examines the implications of military involvement in foreign affairs. His writing is characterized by its directness, assertive tone, and commitment to social justice, often aiming to provoke thought and encourage critical examination of militarism and imperialism.
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