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A prominent Chicago politician, Justin Butterfield, asked…

“A prominent Chicago politician, Justin Butterfield, asked if he was against the Mexican War, replied: “no, I opposed one War [the War of 1812]. That was enough for me. I am now perpetually in favor of war, pestilence and famine.” quote by Doris Kearns Goodwin
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““A prominent Chicago politician, Justin Butterfield, asked if he was against the Mexican War, replied: “no, I opposed one War [the War of 1812]. That was enough for me. I am now perpetually in favor of war, pestilence and famine.””

Doris Kearns Goodwin

About This Quote

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

A politician claims perpetual support for war, pestilence, and famine, reflecting cynical militarism.

In simple terms: War support can become cynical.

Key Takeaway

Question motives behind war advocacy.

Themes

politics military cynicism war ethics

Mood

critical skeptical analytical

Type

political ethical

When to use this quote

  • policy debates
  • public speeches
  • media analysis

Key Concepts

militarism political rhetoric moral decay

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do some embrace war unconditionally?
  • What are the ethical limits of war support?
A Different Perspective

Not all support war for profit.

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