I like Ron Paul, but he might be missing a point. Sanctions are often an attempt to correct bad behavior.
Like the Japanese, and the Greater EastvAsua Co-Prosperity Shpere. They were invading their way across the Pacific and Asia, getting materials for an expanding military. Their govt was being directed by a group of military and economic hawks.
We sanctioned them to slow down their buildup, and yes we went to war anyways. Had we not sanctioned them, they would have been in better military and strategic shape, and we would have gone to war anyways, because that's what they wanted.
The sanctions preceded war, but did not cause it.
I understand what you are saying but what did we accomplish. Were the Japs ruling Asia worse for us than Communist China. What business of ours was it? Japan attacked because we had put a plan into effect that would have starved them very quickly.
Again, what business of ours was it? Did the Chinese benefit? Did we?
What benefit have we gained in our European adventures? For over 100 years now. Everything we've meddled in has come a cropper.
Now we are in debt 30+ TRILLION $$$$.
Patriotism (and religion) is the last refuge of a scoundrel.
