That War America Lost

The economic and political damage likely to be caused by the war far outweighs any of its possible benefits.

• Ironically, our primary reason for war (to protect our overseas trade interests) will be damaged even more severely by war. Instead of simply having limited shipping, plagued by cargo seizure and the impressments of crew members, overseas trade will become virtually nonexistent.
• Since we are not prepared for war (see next section) we will likely lose and be unable to establish our ability to defend ourselves or exercise power overseas (another reason often cited for going to war)
• As a developing nation of enormous potential, war is the last thing we need. We have tremendous resources and booming population growth. However, it is best to let this come into full bloom instead of stunting it through a likely unsuccessful war. As Washington and Jefferson reasoned through their isolationist policies, we must lie in wait, becoming ever stronger before we attempt to seriously participate in global conflicts. Only then will we truly become a force to be reckoned with.

We are extremely unprepared for war

• Our army is small, and largely compromised of unreliable, badly trained militia units that will very likely refuse to operate outside of their home states. Also, thanks to Jefferson’s naval policies, we have a navy of nearly neglidgible force. While there is little question that the resources exist to build an American navy of massive strength, we are simply not there yet. We must wait until our full potential has been reached before we attempt to deal with the most powerful forces in the world.
• Our nation is divided in numerous ways. Unlike the Revolution, this possible war will not galvanize the colonies into intense cooperation. Unfortunately, most will probably remain apathetic and refuse to give any real contributions to the war effort. After all, the issues of interference with overseas trade or the supposed British encouraged Indian attacks are often localized, affecting only a small geographical region. Most of the country will therefore lack the determination and unity that would give us even the most remote hope of victory.
• Our economy holds enormous potential and will inevitably grow, given good conditions. However, war will impede our economic growth by sapping money from the federal government, impeding overseas trade, and consuming manpower. Our resources at present may be sorely stressed by a war with (arguably) the greatest military power of our day. This stress will also set us back some time in our economic development.