History does repeat itself, generally not the way we want it to.

I read this tonight in a book about the Battle of Bunker Hill, an American Revolution battle. It seemed so appropriate for today.

"If force is to be used at length, it must be a considerable one, for to begin with small numbers will encourage resistance, and not terrify; and will in the end cost more blood and treasure." and "A large force will terrify, and engage many to join you, a middling one will encourage resistance, and gain no friends". Thus wrote General Thomas Gage, British commander of the army in the colonies, to officials in King George III's government. I couldn't help but think how true this was of the situation in Iraq, today. Rummy's downsizing, his absolute, arrogant belief that a small number of troops would effect miracles.

The British army, in the 18th century, was every bit as awe-inspiring as the America of the 21st. Gage was an experienced, intelligent military officer, and he knew that even though the British soldier was considered the best in the world, and the native population admired them, and many supported them, that Britain could not win in America if they didn't apply overwhelming force from the beginning. Perhaps our George II should have read a little more history?