dent that the cause of war is not a conflict between political freedom and some form of despotism. If the people of a nation desires to live under an autocracy, they are not free if their neighbours do not permit them to do so.
(b). MONARCHIES.
Another reason advanced as the cause of war is the existence of monarchies. By the advocates of this theory kings are supposed to be the masters of mankind. For them, history ceased when Louis XIV. died. The superstitions of this school are held by Radical politicians, who seize with avidity upon every scandal that gathers round royalty. They hold the notion that by proving the vices of kings and courtiers, kinship with common folk is demonstrated. Though not so much in fashion as in days gone by, there are some who affirm that if kings were dethroned, and all governments republican, wars would be fought no more. This doctrine was for long a favourite in the United States. President Wilson may contend that America would not have entered the war if the German people had overthrown the Kaiser. The fact that the Kaiser is not yet dethroned is emphatic evidence that he efficiently represents very powerful forces in the German Empire. In fact, he remains Kaiser for the same reason that Mr. Wilson was re-elected President. Both men in their respective countries carry out a policy to the general advantage of the rich and powerful classes. If the Kaiser ceased to serve the interests of German capitalism, it is conceivable that the German Junkers would consult with President Wilson on the best form of Republic for the German Confederation. Provided German trade would not spoil the market for American goods, American capitalists would insist upon their President accepting the invitation. A Republic may be "too proud to fight"; like a monarchy it is never too debased to sell.
THE FRENCH COLONIES.
Indissolubly bound up with the cause of war is the question of Colonial policy. Reference has been made to the fear of the German people that their rights to economic development were frustrated. After defeat by Prussia in 1870, the rulers of France, seeing the impossibility of extension in Europe, turned to the acquisition of an imperialist empire in Africa. Already in occupation of Algiers since 1830, the new French Republic made an agreement with
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