Progressive Era

No one wishes to go to war unless it's the last option available. As United States citizens, we must criticize the government as it is our right under the First Amendment. Of course, when war is a threat, mainstream media tries their best to hide it from the public, especially during the Progressive Era.

World War I

In World War I, society was filled with antiwar activists. Antiwar voices advocated for America to not enter the war. As a result, many people were persecuted and thrown in jail for expressing their views. However, no matter how destructive war can be, there is always going to be someone who benefits from war. 

The First Amendment

Americans have the right to freedom of speech and to criticize the government. Taking away antiwar voices is unconstitutional to punish people for stating their opinions on war, and the government is unauthorized to influence how we think by punishing people.

Sides of War

In a war, there is always the good side and the aggressor. For example, Russia and Ukraine are currently at war. Russia deployed its military in Ukraine on February 24th, 2022 attempting to seize Kyiv and other major cities. Many countries, including the United States, supports Ukraine, posing them as innocent. 

Once people indicate which is the good side and which is the aggressor, societies want to display their support for that country, so they can have accessibility at their most vulnerable state. Not choosing a side or choosing the aggressors is frowned upon which is why it's challenging to find antiwar voices.

Why War is Good and Bad

War is beneficial because it compels societies to become more organized and reduces violence. It's also believed to decrease violence between civilians and instill fear from authority figures if you break the law.  The reason war is bad for society is that it impacts the health and well-being of a nation by destroying communities and families, disrupting the economy, and resulting in long-lasting psychological harm.