"No matter what political reasons are given for war, the underlying reason is always economic"
- A. J. P. Taylor
About this Quote
This quote by A. J. P. Taylor suggests that while political reasons are often pointed out as the cause of war, the underlying cause is normally financial. Taylor suggests that political reasons are frequently used as a validation for war, but the real inspiration is typically financial gain. This might be in the kind of resources, land, or power. Taylor's quote recommends that economic gain is the primary consider the decision to go to war, which political factors are used to mask the real objectives. This concept is supported by the truth that numerous wars have been contested resources or land, and that the countries included typically benefit financially from the dispute. Taylor's quote is a pointer that while political factors are typically mentioned as the cause of war, the underlying cause is usually financial.
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