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

The quote, "There are only two things we should fight for. One is the defense of our homes and the other is the Bill of Rights," is attributed to Smedley Butler, a highly decorated United States Marine Corps officer. In this statement, Butler emphasizes the importance of defending both the home and the Bill of Rights as the core values that should be protected at all costs. He suggests that these two elements—home as a symbol of personal freedom and security, and the Bill of Rights as the cornerstone of American civil liberties—are worth fighting for because they form the foundation of individual rights and the nation's integrity.

Butler's quote speaks to the idea that home represents a place of safety, personal freedom, and privacy, and that defending it is a natural duty. The Bill of Rights, on the other hand, represents the freedom and protections that safeguard individuals against government overreach and preserve democratic values. By placing these two as the primary things to fight for, Butler underscores that the defense of personal liberty and the safety of one's loved ones should be paramount above all other causes.

The origin of this quote comes from Butler’s outspoken views on military service and foreign policy. Known for his critiques of U.S. military interventions and the influence of corporate interests in war, Butler argued that military power should not be used to protect the interests of the wealthy or to engage in conflicts that do not serve the fundamental well-being of the American people. His statement reflects his belief that the defense of freedom and the protection of citizens should be the only legitimate reasons for going to war.

Ultimately, Butler’s quote serves as a reminder of the principles upon which the United States was founded: personal security, individual rights, and the preservation of freedom. It calls for a focus on defending those core values rather than engaging in unnecessary conflicts or wars. The quote urges individuals and leaders to prioritize the preservation of the rights and liberties that ensure a just and free society.