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About this quote

What does it mean?
Preparing for war creates suspicion and bad feelings between nations.
In plain terms
Getting ready for war makes others suspicious.
What can you take from it?
Military preparation increases tension.

Where it applies

  • international relations
  • military policy
  • diplomacy

Putting it to work

  • reducing arms buildup
  • promoting trust
  • conflict resolution

Questions to consider

  • How do you balance defense and suspicion?
  • Can peace exist without military preparation?

Another view

Some preparation is necessary for defense against real threats.

More from James Monroe

  1. Our country may be likened to a new house. We lack many things, but we possess the most precious of all -- liberty!

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  2. The best form of government is that which is most likely to prevent the greatest sum of evil.

    Permalink to quote #14
  3. Never did a government commence under auspices so favorable, nor ever was success so complete.

    Permalink to quote #11

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