I like AuntyM's anology of domestice abuse. In such a situation it is proper for sociaty to put the offending criminal in prison. When it comes to Nation States that is the job of the Marines. How many democracy's where created peacefully? Except for a handfull of British Colonies (India, Canada, Australia) most if not all democracy's where created at the end of rifle. And most of those where created by the American soldiar (France, Germany, Japan, All of Eastern Europe etc.....). I'm not real sure how you propose "showing" a baby with, "thighbones the size of matchsticks," "democracy the right way?"

TK-Don't hold your breath! We must remember that most of the countries you mentioned became free at the end of a machine gun being held by an American Soldiar!

GH-There has to be line somewhere. IMHO, As a Nation, we should do all we can to end Civil Wars and Genocide through deplomacy without an invasion. But when a country invades their neighbor and shoots at American pilots daily we reserve the right to invade. That is why I did not agree with the Bosnian War (although once the decision was made I supported Clinton and the soldiars) but did agree with the invasion of Iraq. I would agree that the Bush administration did throw out some red herrings (excuses as you say) that where unneccesary. If it was me I would have held a press conferance saying that Saddam has violated the cease fire so hostilities have resumed. Easy enough!