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Is it not the case that the US armed forces recruit non American citizens from places like Latin America and the Philippines, with the promise of citizenship after 20 years of service (or whatever).

This is the same deal the Roman Empire gave to non-citizens within the Empire and barbarians from outside it. The Romans also threw in land in border areas or newly conquered provinces, as an added incentive for surviving veterans. Thus they filled the ranks of the army and strengthened pro-Roman elements in strategic places.

by Gary J on Thu Jul 27th, 2006 at 05:46:55 PM EST
[ Parent ]
The Pentagon is also incresingly using mercenaries. Apparently former Latin American death squad types, South African military and police Apartheid enforcers, Pinochetistas, ex Marines...

Nothing is 'mere'. — Richard P. Feynman
by Migeru (migeru at eurotrib dot com) on Thu Jul 27th, 2006 at 05:50:07 PM EST
[ Parent ]
France too has the Légion étrangère. They used to crush Arab revolts and mess in Subsaharan Africa. Sarko's father became citizen this way.

*Lunatic*, n.
One whose delusions are out of fashion.
by DoDo on Thu Jul 27th, 2006 at 05:55:17 PM EST
[ Parent ]

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