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Sun Tzu accurately
described the
consequences of our
wars in Iraq and
Afghanistan
centuries ago. Just
shows we don't learn
from history.
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Sun Tzu said:
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If the army is
exposed to a
prolonged campaign,
the nation's
resources will not
suffice.
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When weapons are
blunted, and ardor
dampened, strength
exhausted, and
resources depleted,
the neighboring
rulers will take
advantage of these
complications.
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Then even the wisest
of counsels would
not be able to avert
the consequences
that must ensue.
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Therefore, I have
heard of military
campaigns that were
clumsy but swift,
but I have never
seen military
campaigns that were
skilled but
protracted.
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No nation has ever
benefited from
protracted warfare.
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Therefore, if one is
not fully cognizant
of the dangers
inherent in doing
battle, one cannot
fully know the
benefits of doing
battle.
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Those skilled in
doing battle do not
raise troops twice,
or transport
provisions three
times.
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Take equipment from
home but take
provisions from the
enemy.
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Then the army will
be sufficient in
both equipment and
provisions.
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A nation can be
impoverished by the
army when it has to
supply the army at
great distances.
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When provisions are
transported at great
distances, the
citizens will be
impoverished.
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Those in proximity
to the army will
sell goods at high
prices.
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When goods are
expensive, the
citizens' wealth
will be exhausted.
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When their wealth is
exhausted, the
peasantry will be
afflicted with
increased taxes.
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