“War is the business of barbarians.”
- August 15, 1769 – May 5, 1821
- French of Italian descent
- French military officer and emperor
- Reorganized Europe after the French Revolution and built the foundations of the legal system in modern Europe
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Quote
“War is the business of barbarians.”
Explanation
In this statement, Napoleon Bonaparte criticizes warfare by suggesting that it is a practice rooted in brutality and uncivilized behavior. By referring to war as the “business of barbarians,” he implies that violence and destruction are antithetical to the ideals of civilization, culture, and progress. Napoleon’s perspective highlights the inhumanity of war, acknowledging that even though he was a military leader, he viewed warfare as a regrettable and crude means of resolving conflict, often leading to suffering and loss.
This view resonates with modern perspectives on war, where the destructive impacts on human lives, societies, and infrastructure are widely recognized. Even when war is deemed necessary, it is often regarded as a failure of diplomacy, highlighting the inability of parties to reach peaceful resolutions. Napoleon’s words suggest that truly civilized societies should prioritize diplomacy, dialogue, and cooperation over violence, working toward peace rather than resorting to force.
This statement encourages us to view war critically, recognizing it as a last resort that undermines human progress and collective well-being. It challenges leaders and societies to find more constructive, humane approaches to conflict resolution, emphasizing that true strength lies in the ability to maintain peace rather than engage in violence. Napoleon’s words reflect a vision for a more enlightened society, where peace is upheld as the hallmark of civilization, and the barbaric nature of war is left behind.
