Does anyone think that Europe became soft because the US was watching their backs?

Answer 1

I've never heard that question posed so succinctly and eloquently before, but yes, that's exactly right. Europeans knew we would defend them against attack, so they were free to act irresponsibly. They didn't have to be realistic.

This article is only peripherally related to your question, but you'll love it:

http://service.spiegel.de/cache/international/0,1518,343378,00.html

Answer 2

Where do you get your information from a comic book or cartoons may'be America is always beating the war drum and wielding the big stick The usa never done anything for anyone unless there there was a dollar in it I say agian the only war the us ever won was that one against grenada That was a resounding victory

Answer 3

Europe is soft because the US is foot'n the bill for 70% of their military. Look it up.

Answer 4

To a large extent, you may be correct.

The Europeans will eventually pay for their passivity. France seems primed to become a pressure cooker and will need to release that pressure soon. The recent rioting was just a precursor of what is to come.

Answer 5

Yes, they became a bunch of wimps!