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And always we had wars, and more wars, and still other…

“And always we had wars, and more wars, and still other wars - all over Europe, all over the world. "Sometimes in the private interest of royal families," Satan said, "sometimes to crush a weak nation; but never a war started by the aggressor for any clean purpose - there is no such war in the…” quote by Mark Twain
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“And always we had wars, and more wars, and still other wars - all over Europe, all over the world. "Sometimes in the private interest of royal families," Satan said, "sometimes to crush a weak nation; but never a war started by the aggressor for any clean purpose - there is no such war in the history of the race."”

Mark Twain

About This Quote

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

War is portrayed as driven by selfish motives, never noble ones, highlighting human cruelty and political manipulation.

In simple terms: Wars are selfish, not noble.

Key Takeaway

Question motives behind conflict.

Themes

war politics human nature

Mood

cynical serious

Type

critical historical

When to use this quote

  • historical analysis
  • political debate
  • ethical education

Key Concepts

power greed imperialism

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is any war truly just?
  • How do power interests shape conflict?
A Different Perspective

Some wars may be justified as self‑defense.

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