Smedley Butler

Smedley Butler was a United States Marine Corps major general, two-time recipient of the Medal of Honor, and a highly decorated marine who served during the early 20th century.

Butler was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions during the United States occupation of Veracruz, Mexico in 1914, where he led his Marines in fierce combat against Mexican forces.

Butler is most well-known for his opposition to war and his critical views concerning the role of the military-industrial complex. He wrote a book called "War is a Racket," in which he expressed his strong anti-war sentiments.

Butler served in the Marine Corps from 1898 to 1931, a period that spanned both the Spanish-American War and World War I. He retired at the rank of major general.

Butler played a significant role in the Banana Wars, a series of occupations, interventions, and conflicts led by the United States in Central America and the Caribbean. He commanded Marines in several of these operations, including the American occupation of Nicaragua in 1912.

Yes, Butler claimed that a group of wealthy businessmen approached him in 1933 and attempted to recruit him for a planned coup against President Roosevelt. However, the coup plot was seemingly abandoned, and no actual coup took place.

One of Smedley Butler's most famous quotes is, "I spent thirty-three years and four months in active service as a member of our country’s most agile military force – the Marine Corps... And during that period, I spent most of my time being a high-class muscle man for Big Business, for Wall Street and for the bankers."

Butler opposed war because he believed that it primarily served the interests of the wealthy elite and corporations. He saw war as a means for profit-making and empire-building, rather than for noble or just causes.

In addition to his two Medals of Honor, Butler received numerous other awards and honors for his military service. These include the Navy Cross, the Distinguished Service Medal, and the Order of the Black Star from the government of Haiti.

Smedley Butler's legacy is primarily one of anti-war activism and his outspoken critique of the military-industrial complex. He remains an influential figure for those who oppose militarization and believe that war primarily benefits the wealthy and powerful.