Cannon, n. An instrument employed in the rectification of national boundaries.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Cannons are cynically defined as tools to redraw borders.
- In plain terms
- War is used to change national boundaries.
- What can you take from it?
- Military force is often about territorial gain.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Does this capture the essence of war?
- Why are borders so fought over?
Another view
Not all wars are about boundaries; some are about ideology.
More from Ambrose Bierce
Cabbage, n. A familiar kitchen-garden vegetable about as large and wise as a man's head.
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