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One must expect a war between U.S.A. and U.S.S.R. which…

“One must expect a war between U.S.A. and U.S.S.R. which will begin with the total destruction of London. I think the war will last 30 years, and leave a world without civilised people, from which everything will have to build afresh-a process taking say 500 years. Stated just one month after the…” quote by Bertrand Russell
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“One must expect a war between U.S.A. and U.S.S.R. which will begin with the total destruction of London. I think the war will last 30 years, and leave a world without civilised people, from which everything will have to build afresh-a process taking say 500 years. Stated just one month after the Hiroshima atomic explosion. Russell became one of the best-known antinuclear activists of his era.”

Bertrand Russell

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Predicts a catastrophic war between superpowers leading to massive destruction and a long rebuilding period

In simple terms: War will cause massive destruction and a long recovery

Key Takeaway

Advocate for nuclear disarmament and peace

Themes

war nuclear future humanity

Mood

cautious serious

Type

political historical

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • education
  • peace activism
  • global security

Key Concepts

politics history ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • What steps can prevent such a war?
  • How does fear shape policy?
A Different Perspective

The prediction may be exaggerated; diplomatic efforts can prevent war

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