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Someday, I have no doubt, the dead from today's wars will be seen with a similar sense of sorrow at needless loss and folly as those millions of men who lie in the cemeteries of France and Belgium - and tens of millions of Americans will feel a similar revulsion for the politicians and generals who were so spendthrift with others' lives.
Adam Hochschild
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The quote reflects on the futility of war and the future perspective of those who suffer its consequences.

Adam Hochschild's quote expresses the belief that, in the future, society will view the casualties of current wars with deep sorrow and regret, much like how we view the soldiers buried in cemeteries from past conflicts. It critiques the leaders who so carelessly expend lives for their agendas, suggesting that, with time, people will recognize the senselessness and tragedy of such actions.

Themes

WarSorrowLossPoliticiansFutilityHistory

In practice

Example use cases

During a memorial speech for veterans, one might use this quote to emphasize the costs of war.

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