[Sherman Logan]

Wars, whether necessary like 1812, or unnecessary, like 1898 and WWI, lead inexorably to centralized Federal power and away from the original Constitution and the rights of sovereign states. We are still organized for war, not for peace nor for government as envisioned by our Founders.

Agreed, except I'd give you an argument on 1812 being "necessary."

It is also difficult to make out a case for the Mexican War being "necessary."

[Michael.SF.]

I'd give you an argument on 1812 being "necessary."

Why?

In studying the War of 1812 last year, one fact I had forgotten was that between 4,000 and 10,000 American sailors had been impressed into service on British vessels. If that is not justification for war, I do not know what is.

[Kenny Bunk]

It is also difficult to make out a case for the Mexican War being "necessary."

I (and apparently Abraham Lincoln) would agree with you there.

However, 1812 I'd fight for. We were sort of maneuvered into it by Britain, who expected to take us back!