General Smedley Butler was a prominent American military figure known for his outspoken views on war and U.S. foreign policy. Serving two terms as the Commandant of the United States Marine Corps, Butler's career was marked by a deep involvement in various military conflicts. However, his experiences led him to become a vocal critic of American imperialism, particularly the motivations behind U.S. interventions in foreign nations. In his later years, Butler authored the book "War Is a Racket," where he argued that war primarily benefited corporations and wealthy elites rather than the soldiers who fought. He emphasized how military conflicts were often instigated for economic gain and criticized the way the military-industrial complex operated. His views challenged conventional patriotic narratives and prompted discussions about the ethics of military involvement. Butler's legacy is complex, balancing his decorated military career with his eventual stance as an anti-war advocate. His insights continue to resonate in discussions about the true costs of war and the influence of corporate interests on national policy. His life reminds us that military service can be intertwined with critical reflection on the role of the United States in global affairs. General Smedley Butler was a prominent American military figure known for his outspoken views on war and U.S. foreign policy. Serving two terms as the Commandant of the United States Marine Corps, Butler's career was marked by a deep involvement in various military conflicts. However, his experiences led him to become a vocal critic of American imperialism, particularly the motivations behind U.S. interventions in foreign nations. In his later years, Butler authored the book "War Is a Racket," where he argued that war primarily benefited corporations and wealthy elites rather than the soldiers who fought. He emphasized how military conflicts were often instigated for economic gain and criticized the way the military-industrial complex operated. His views challenged conventional patriotic narratives and prompted discussions about the ethics of military involvement. Butler's legacy is complex, balancing his decorated military career with his eventual stance as an anti-war advocate. His insights continue to resonate in discussions about the true costs of war and the influence of corporate interests on national policy. His life reminds us that military service can be intertwined with critical reflection on the role of the United States in global affairs.