Actually Pat would be right if that’s what he means.
Conquer or get out of there. Anything less is about pride.
I guess so if you don’t care about preserving buildings, bridges, roads, airports, and other infrastructure.
Remember; in the civil war scenario we would also be living in the same places (somewhat) we just destroyed afterward. I just can’t see us destroying the tall buildings in NYC or other cities if we had another way to win; albeit taking longer but with less loss of life.
Maybe I’m dreaming but let’s say the right won; would those who fought for the left have to concede or leave? What if the left won? Would we have to concede or leave?