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American government Quote by Murray N. Rothbard

“All sorts of people are for it. Numerous senators and representatives—of the Right and Left—have expressed their purpose to establish universal military training when the war ends. The great and glamorous industry is here—the industry of militarism. And when the war is ended the country is going…” quote by Murray N. Rothbard
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““All sorts of people are for it. Numerous senators and representatives—of the Right and Left—have expressed their purpose to establish universal military training when the war ends. The great and glamorous industry is here—the industry of militarism. And when the war is ended the country is going to be asked if it seriously wishes to demobilize an industry that can employ so many men, create so much national income when the nation is faced with the probability of vast unemployment in industry. All the well-known arguments, used so long and so successfully in Europe … will be dusted off—America with her high purposes of world regeneration must have the power to back up her magnificent ideals; America cannot afford to grow soft, and the Army and Navy must be continued on a vast scale to toughen the moral and physical sinews of our youth; America dare not live in a world of gangsters and aggressors without keeping her full power mustered … and above and below and all around these sentiments will be the sinister allurement of the perpetuation of the great industry which can never know a depression because it will have but one customer—the American government to whose pocket there is no bottom.16””

Murray N. Rothbard

About This Quote

Source Speech: Radio Address, 1942, United States

The quote argues that post‑war militarism will be defended by economic interests and political rhetoric, suggesting that the military industry will be kept alive to prevent unemployment and maintain national power.

In simple terms: Militarism will be kept alive to protect jobs and power.

Key Takeaway

Beware economic motives behind defense policy.

Themes

politics economics military employment propaganda

Mood

cautious critical analytical

Type

political economic historical

When to use this quote

  • post‑war policy
  • budget decisions
  • public opinion
  • labor market
  • defense contracts

Key Concepts

industrial complex war economy political rhetoric

Questions to Reflect On

  • What economic alternatives could replace a large military industry?
  • How does rhetoric shape public support for defense spending?
A Different Perspective

The argument assumes that a strong military is the only solution to unemployment, ignoring alternative economic strategies.

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