As we learned to our horror at the turn of the twentieth century in the Philippines, as well as in the 1960s in Vietnam, and again in the last decade in Iraq, to invade is to govern. Once you decide to send in ground forces in significant numbers, it becomes your job to administer the territory you've just conquered-or to identify someone immediately who can.
In the analysis by Robert D. Kaplan in "The Return of Marco Polo's World," the author reflects on the weighty consequences of military interventions, highlighting that invasion necessitates governance. Historical examples such as the U.S. actions in the Philippines, Vietnam, and Iraq serve as reminders that once ground forces are deployed in large numbers, the invading power must take responsibility for administering the conquered area or promptly find local leaders to manage the transition. This reality underscores the complexities and obligations that accompany military actions.
Kaplan's observations shed light on the burdens of governance faced by nations that engage in military conquests. The expectation to maintain order, provide stability, and manage the local populace is not only a logistical challenge but also a moral imperative. As soldiers move into foreign lands, the need for effective administration becomes critical, illustrating that the act of invasion transforms the invader's role from combatant to caretaker, with all the inherent responsibilities that follow.
