Smedley Butler Quotes

A collection of quotes by Smedley Butler.

Smedley Butler (1881-1940) was a highly decorated United States Marine Corps major general and two-time recipient of the Medal of Honor. He served in various conflicts, including the Banana Wars, World War I, and the Mexican Revolution. Butler gained significant recognition for his leadership skills and bravery. Following his retirement from military service, he became a prominent critic of American imperialism, advocating for peace and exposing corporate influences on U.S. foreign policy. Butler authored a controversial book called "War is a Racket," in which he denounced war profiteering. He remains revered by many as a rare voice of conscience within the military establishment.

War is just a racket... I believe in adequate defense at the

War is just a racket... I believe in adequate defense at the coastline and nothing else.

Smedley Butler

War

There are only two things we should fight for. One is the de

There are only two things we should fight for. One is the defense of our homes and the other is the Bill of Rights.

Smedley Butler

Home

War is a racket. It is the only one international in scope.

War is a racket. It is the only one international in scope. It is the only one in which the profits are reckoned in dollars and the losses in lives.

Smedley Butler

War