Meaning: The quote "It simply is not true that war never settles anything" by Felix Frankfurter, a former Supreme Court Justice, is a thought-provoking statement that challenges the commonly held belief that war does not lead to resolution or settlement of conflicts. Born in Austria in 1882, Frankfurter immigrated to the United States as a child and became a prominent legal figure, known for his progressive views and influential contributions to American jurisprudence. As a judge, he was deeply involved in shaping the U.S. legal system and was a strong advocate for civil liberties and human rights.

At first glance, the quote appears to contradict the popular sentiment that war only begets more problems and suffering. It suggests that there are instances where war has indeed settled matters, implying that there may be situations where the use of force or military action has led to resolution or conclusion of conflicts. This viewpoint challenges the pacifist stance that advocates for non-violent means of conflict resolution and suggests that in certain cases, war may have been the decisive factor in bringing about an end to a dispute or achieving a specific outcome.

When considering the quote in a broader historical context, it becomes evident that there have been numerous instances where wars have indeed resulted in the settlement of significant conflicts. Throughout history, wars have played a role in redrawing borders, establishing new political systems, and bringing about the end of oppressive regimes. The outcomes of wars such as the American Civil War, World War I, and World War II have had profound and lasting impacts on the course of history, leading to the resolution of longstanding disputes and shaping the global order.

However, it is important to note that the quote does not glorify war or advocate for its indiscriminate use as a means of conflict resolution. Instead, it challenges the notion that war is always futile and never leads to resolution. Frankfurter's statement acknowledges the complexities of conflict and the potential for war to bring about significant changes, whether positive or negative, in the aftermath of armed conflict.

In contemporary times, the quote remains relevant as the world continues to grapple with conflicts and geopolitical tensions. The ongoing debate over the effectiveness of military intervention and the ethical implications of warfare underscores the significance of Frankfurter's statement. It prompts us to critically evaluate the role of war in shaping history and its impact on the resolution of conflicts, while also recognizing the devastating human and societal costs associated with armed conflicts.

In conclusion, Felix Frankfurter's quote challenges the prevailing belief that war never settles anything by highlighting the historical instances where armed conflict has led to the resolution of significant disputes. It encourages a nuanced perspective on the complexities of war and its potential outcomes, emphasizing the need for thoughtful reflection on the role of armed conflict in human history. Ultimately, the quote serves as a reminder of the multifaceted nature of war and its impact on the resolution of conflicts throughout history.