America Quote by Rutherford B. Hayes
“No capitalists after any war were ever so well paid for money loaned to the nation that carried it on. No class of money-makers ever gained such prosperity by any other war, as our War for the Union brought to the money-getters of America. All this was due in great measure to the rank and file of the Union army. Now let no rich man haggle with a needy veteran of that war about his right to a pension!”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Address to the United States Congress, 1877
War creates financial opportunities for lenders, especially when the nation funds its own conflict, leading to wealth for financiers and veterans alike.
In simple terms: War boosts profits for lenders and pensions for veterans.
Recognize the impact of war on economics and support veterans.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- policy debates
- veteran pension negotiations
- historical economic analysis
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How should societies balance wartime profits with veteran support?
- What safeguards can prevent exploitation?
War profiteering can exacerbate inequality and cause social tension.