Punitive village-burning expeditions

[DrBB]

They're getting ready to do it. Making the case, softening up opinion. Pipes's article about a "democratic-minded strongman" was just a start. Here's a nice glimpse of the rotting skull underneath the smiley face from an op-ed from today's NYTimes:

In 1920, the British eventually ended the rebellion through a combination of aerial bombardment and punitive village-burning expeditions.

That's what Niall Ferguson is recommending. Though, characteristically--and chilliingly--he doesn't come right out and say so.

"Punitive village-burning expeditions." A phrase worth dwelling on in the context of the public face this war is supposed to have. "Gift of the Almighty," 'n' stuff.

Note the contrast--I place them side by side for easy comparison:

"...showering us with flower petals..." || Punitive village-burning expeditions.

"...liberators, not conquerors..." || Punitive village-burning expeditions.

"...no WMD found..." || Punitive village-burning expeditions.

"...no interest in colonizing Iraq..." || Punitive village-burning expeditions.

"...hate us because we love freedom..." || Punitive village-burning expeditions.

I look forward to hearing Bush use the phrase frequently in election speeches this year. Has a lovely ring to it, a nice, syncopated poetic rhythm. "Punitive village-burning expeditions."

[hedda_foil]

1. link?

[gottaB]

2. omg--it's barbaric

http://www.nytimes.com/2004/04/18/opinion/18FERG.html?ex=1082865600&en=200817ccd13e17da&ei=5062&partner=GOOGLE

[DrBB]

3. Ooops--link

Lost it in the editing somewhere. Here's the rest, if you can stomach it.

[porkrind]

4. Dresden?

Liberation by Napalm? When do we get to the part where they shower us with flowers?