Bronze Metal Excalibur Sculpture King Artus; via Pixabay, Photo MonicaP; CC.o

“In war, a physical force is to be created; and it is the executive will, which is to direct it.  In war, the public treasures are to be unlocked; and it is the executive hand, which is to dispense them.  In war, the honors and emoluments of office are to be multiplied; and it is the executive patronage under which they are to be enjoyed.  It is in war, finally, that laurels are to be gathered; and it is the executive brow they are to encircle.  The strongest passions and most dangerous weaknesses of the human breast, ambition, avarice, vanity, the honorable or venial love of fame, are all in conspiracy against the desire and duty of peace.”  James Madison, Fourth President of the United States

Image Credit:  Bronze Metal Excalibur Sculpture King Artur; via Pixabay, Photo MonicaP;  CC.O