Smedley Butler

Smedley Butler was a highly decorated American Marine Corps general and outspoken critic of U.S. military interventionism. Born on July 30, 1881, in West Chester, Pennsylvania, Butler had a distinguished military career spanning over three decades, earning two Medals of Honor for his bravery. After retiring, he became a vocal advocate against war profiteering and the influence of big business on American foreign policy.

Throughout his life, Smedley Butler was known for his candid critiques of militarism and imperialism. His most famous work, War Is a Racket, exposes how war benefits corporations at the expense of soldiers and taxpayers. Butler's outspoken stance made him a controversial figure, but also a powerful voice for peace and reform during a time of growing global conflict.

Butler is remembered for striking quotes that challenge conventional views on war. One of his notable sayings is, "War is a racket. It always has been. It is possibly the oldest, easily the most profitable, surely the most vicious," highlighting his condemnation of war profiteering. Another powerful quote is, "I spent 33 years and four months in active military service and during that period I spent most of my time as a high-class muscle man for Big Business," reflecting his critical view of his own military career and its broader implications.