Meaning: The quote "All the gods are dead except the god of war" is a thought-provoking statement made by Eldridge Cleaver, an influential activist and prominent figure in the Black Power movement of the 1960s and 1970s. This quote reflects Cleaver's perspective on the state of contemporary society and the enduring prevalence of conflict and warfare amidst the decline of traditional religious beliefs and values.

Eldridge Cleaver was an outspoken advocate for civil rights and social justice, known for his radical viewpoints and militant approach to activism. As a prominent member of the Black Panther Party, Cleaver was deeply involved in the fight against racial oppression and systemic inequality, and his words often carried a profound resonance within the context of the turbulent political and social climate of his time.

In the context of Cleaver's quote, "All the gods are dead except the god of war," it is important to consider the broader implications of his words. Cleaver's assertion that "all the gods are dead" suggests a disillusionment with traditional religious or spiritual beliefs, implying that the guiding principles and moral foundations associated with these belief systems have lost their influence or relevance in the modern world. This sentiment reflects a broader cultural and intellectual shift away from organized religion and towards secularism and skepticism.

Furthermore, Cleaver's identification of the "god of war" as the sole surviving deity speaks to the enduring prevalence of conflict and violence in human society. In this interpretation, "war" can be understood not only in its literal sense as armed conflict between nations or groups but also as a metaphor for the pervasive and destructive forces of aggression, domination, and power struggles that continue to shape human interactions and social structures.

Cleaver's quote can also be seen as a commentary on the enduring nature of human conflict and the ways in which war, whether physical or metaphorical, remains a dominant force in shaping the course of history and influencing the dynamics of power and authority. From ancient times to the present day, warfare has been a persistent and pervasive feature of human civilization, playing a central role in shaping the trajectory of societies and the course of global events.

Moreover, the quote may also be interpreted as a critique of the glorification and perpetuation of militarism and aggression in contemporary culture and politics. By singling out the "god of war" as the only deity that endures, Cleaver may be highlighting the ways in which societies often prioritize and exalt the values of conflict, conquest, and dominance, while neglecting the virtues of peace, cooperation, and empathy.

In conclusion, Eldridge Cleaver's quote "All the gods are dead except the god of war" offers a profound and thought-provoking reflection on the state of contemporary society, the decline of traditional religious beliefs, and the enduring prevalence of conflict and warfare. This quote invites us to consider the complex interplay of power, violence, and human nature, and to reflect on the enduring challenges and contradictions that shape our world.