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Books Quote by Thomas Paine

“He who is the author of a war lets loose the whole contagion of hell and opens a vein that bleeds a nation to death.” quote by Thomas Paine
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“He who is the author of a war lets loose the whole contagion of hell and opens a vein that bleeds a nation to death.”

Thomas Paine

About This Quote

Source Pamphlet: Common Sense, 1776

War initiators unleash widespread suffering, causing a nation to bleed and die.

In simple terms: Starting a war spreads terrible damage.

Key Takeaway

Avoid conflict; seek peaceful resolution.

Themes

war politics human suffering

Mood

somber urgent

Type

political ethical

When to use this quote

  • policy debates
  • international negotiations
  • historical analysis
  • peace activism

Key Concepts

ethics political theory mass violence

Questions to Reflect On

  • What responsibilities do leaders have to prevent war?
  • How can societies resist the contagion of conflict?
A Different Perspective

Not all wars are initiated by a single author; systemic forces also play roles.

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