On 18 Nov 2001, at 20:37, CDR Anonymizer wrote:

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Anonymous:

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but why did governments engage in the vigorous and frequent application of bayonets and batons to render their money independent of precious metals?

Because they could.

This goes beyond gratuitous demonstration of power and ability, there is an economic reason behind it all. What is / their / economic reason?

They wanted to be able to pay off their debts with devalued money. George