Page:Scott Nearing - The Germs of War (1916).djvu/26

 Patriotic Germany was ready to protect the investments of her capitalists. Patriotic England was willing to defend her capitalists. A shot sounded from somewhere and England and Germany were at war!

Now the American capitalists, who are in charge of a similar exploiting system, are actively engaged in their efforts to lay their hands on Mexico and South America. Germany and England were strong there before the war. They are busy now, and it is Uncle Sam's turn to take a hand. The war will end. No matter whether England or Germany wins, the victor again will turn her attention to Mexico and South America.

The same international, economic competition, based on exploitation at home and investment abroad, that drove England and Germany into war will drive the United States to war with the victor in the European conflict, no matter which nation wins. The American papers talk glibly now of sympathy with English ideals. Kaiserism they hate. Therefore they are pro-ally. They forget that the Czar is also pro-ally, and Czarism is as repellent to American and English ideals as Kaiserism ever hoped to be. The United States has fought two wars with England, and been on the verge of two more. She has never fought with Germany, but it will be as easy to create friction in one case as in the other. If you do not believe it, read current events; read history, and then put two and two together.

The conflict is inevitable! The United States is driving fast toward war. Therefore, let us prepare!

Just so!

This is the real cause.

Here are the germs of war, lurking in economic competition between nations.

Now we know why we are to prepare. Now we know why ninety-five per cent of the patriotism around the campaign of the past year will be found among those who are benefited by things as they are and as they are to be, with preparedness to back them.