Meaning: The quote you provided seems to capture the sentiment of anger and betrayal felt by a military unit or group towards individuals who are perceived as working against their own side during a conflict. Let's break it down and explore the potential context and implications of this quote.

The quote begins with "The anger in the Brigade against those who fought the Republic in the rear." This suggests that there is a collective feeling of anger within a specific military unit or organization, referred to as "the Brigade," towards individuals who are perceived to have fought against the Republic from within their own ranks or from a position of relative safety, such as the rear lines. This type of betrayal can be particularly damaging to the morale and trust within a military group, as it involves a breach of loyalty and potentially endangers the lives of fellow soldiers.

The next part of the quote adds further depth to the anger felt by the Brigade, stating that it was "sharpened by reports of weapons, even tanks, being kept from the front and hidden for treacherous purposes." This suggests that the anger and sense of betrayal are intensified by reports or suspicions that certain individuals or groups within the Brigade have been hoarding or hiding weapons, including heavy military equipment like tanks, with the intention of using them for treacherous or disloyal purposes. This could imply that there is a belief that some members of the Brigade are actively undermining the collective effort and potentially endangering their fellow soldiers by withholding crucial resources.

The quote is attributed to Bill Alexander, described as a politician. Without further context, it's challenging to pinpoint the specific circumstances or conflict to which this quote pertains. However, the themes of betrayal, anger, and the misuse of military resources are universal and can be found in various historical and contemporary contexts.

In a broader historical context, such sentiments are not uncommon during times of conflict or war. Betrayals and accusations of treachery within military ranks have been documented in numerous conflicts, often leading to significant internal strife and the erosion of trust among soldiers. The hoarding or diversion of weapons and supplies for personal gain or disloyal purposes has the potential to have dire consequences for the overall success and safety of military operations.

It's important to note that without specific details about the historical or political context in which this quote was made, it is challenging to provide a definitive analysis. However, based on the language used and the themes addressed, it appears to reflect the complex dynamics of loyalty, betrayal, and the ethical use of military resources within a specific military unit or organization.

In conclusion, the quote you provided encapsulates the intense emotions and suspicions that can arise within a military group when faced with perceived acts of betrayal and treachery. The potential hoarding and misuse of weapons and equipment add a layer of urgency and gravity to the situation, highlighting the high stakes involved. While the specific context of this quote remains elusive, its themes resonate with broader patterns of internal conflict and ethical challenges within military settings.