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Causes Quote by Sam Houston

“To secede from the Union and set up another government would cause war. If you go to war with the United States, you will never conquer her, as she has the money and the men. If she does not whip you by guns, powder, and steel, she will starve you to death. It will take the flower of the country…” quote by Sam Houston
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“To secede from the Union and set up another government would cause war. If you go to war with the United States, you will never conquer her, as she has the money and the men. If she does not whip you by guns, powder, and steel, she will starve you to death. It will take the flower of the country - the young men.”

Sam Houston

About This Quote

Source Speech: Texas Independence Address, Sam Houston, 1836

Violence against a powerful nation leads to severe loss, especially of youth, making war a costly choice.

In simple terms: War with a strong country costs many lives.

Key Takeaway

Avoid war if possible.

Themes

war politics consequences

Mood

serious cautious

Type

historical political

When to use this quote

  • policy decisions
  • military planning
  • national security
  • public debate

Key Concepts

power resource disparity human cost

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is war ever justified against a stronger foe?
  • What alternatives exist to conflict?
A Different Perspective

Might be necessary when diplomacy fails.

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