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The term military-industrial complex usually refers to the combination of the U.S. armed forces, arms industry and associated political and commercial interests, which grew rapidly in scale and influence in the wake of World War II, although it can also be used to describe any such relationship of industry and military. It is sometimes used to refer to the iron triangle which exists between weapons makers/military contractors, The Pentagon and the United States Congress.
Widely adopted by Vietnam-era anti-war activists, the term was first coined by General Dwight D. Eisenhower (Ike), 34th President of the United States, in his prophetic Military-Industrial Complex Speech given on January 17, 1961.
- "This conjunction of an immense military establishment and a large arms industry is new in the American experience. The total influence -- economic, political, even spiritual -- is felt in every city, every State house, every office of the Federal government. We recognize the imperative need for this development. Yet we must not fail to comprehend its grave implications. Our toil, resources and livelihood are all involved; so is the very structure of our society.
- In the councils of government, we must guard against the acquisition of unwarranted influence, whether sought or unsought, by the military-industrial complex. The potential for the disastrous rise of misplaced power exists and will persist.
- We must never let the weight of this combination endanger our liberties or democratic processes. We should take nothing for granted. Only an alert and knowledgeable citizenry can compel the proper meshing of the huge industrial and military machinery of defense with our peaceful methods and goals, so that security and liberty may prosper together."
Though the term is usually used in reference to the United States, it has also been occasionally used to describe other militarily strong nations, such as the former Soviet Union or Nazi Germany. The term permanent war economy has also been used in association with the concept.
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