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I believe in adequate defense at the coastline and nothing…

“I believe in adequate defense at the coastline and nothing else. If a nation comes over here to fight, then we'll fight. The trouble with America is that when the dollar only earns 6 percent over here, then it gets restless and goes overseas to get 100 percent. Then the flag follows the dollar and…” quote by Smedley Butler
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“I believe in adequate defense at the coastline and nothing else. If a nation comes over here to fight, then we'll fight. The trouble with America is that when the dollar only earns 6 percent over here, then it gets restless and goes overseas to get 100 percent. Then the flag follows the dollar and the soldiers follow the flag.”

Smedley Butler

About This Quote

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

He supports strong coastal defense, linking American military actions to dollar interests and flag loyalty.

In simple terms: He ties defense to money and nationalism.

Key Takeaway

Question the motives behind military interventions.

Themes

military strategy economics nationalism

Mood

skeptical critical

Type

political analytical

When to use this quote

  • foreign policy
  • defense planning
  • economic analysis
  • political debate

Key Concepts

defense policy economic drivers patriotic symbolism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What other factors drive military actions?
  • How does economic policy shape foreign policy?
A Different Perspective

Simplistic view may ignore complex geopolitical factors.

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