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I must repeat what I asserted formerly, that unless some…

“I must repeat what I asserted formerly, that unless some happy expedient can be fallen upon to induce the seamen to enter into the service for a longer term than twelve months, it will never be possible to bring them under proper subordination; and subordination is as necessary, nay, far more so…” quote by John Paul Jones
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“I must repeat what I asserted formerly, that unless some happy expedient can be fallen upon to induce the seamen to enter into the service for a longer term than twelve months, it will never be possible to bring them under proper subordination; and subordination is as necessary, nay, far more so in the fleet than in the army.”

John Paul Jones

About This Quote

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

Long-term enlistment is essential for effective naval discipline, more so than in the army.

In simple terms: Naval service needs longer contracts for good order.

Key Takeaway

Secure longer enlistments.

Themes

discipline navy military organization

Mood

pragmatic serious

Type

historical military

When to use this quote

  • recruiting
  • fleet management
  • policy planning

Key Concepts

contract length leadership military structure

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can incentives improve enlistment length?
  • What alternatives exist to forced subordination?
A Different Perspective

Short contracts may deter enlistment.

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