Political Quotes

On the recordMarch 2, 2015
Graham Allison, from Harvard, called it the 'Thucydides Trap,' wherein 12 of 16 instances in world history where you had a rapidly rising power confronting an established power ended in war.
Said by
Angus King
Independent · Maine

Editor's note · Context

King references historical patterns of conflict between rising and established powers.

Share

More from Angus King

Aug 4, 2026

Accessible, reliable health care is essential for seniors across Maine, particularly in our rural communities where providers are already stretched thin.

king.senate.gov
Aug 4, 2026

The Provider Reimbursement Stability Act would help ensure that Medicare providers are fairly reimbursed so they can continue delivering the full range of care that Maine seniors depend on for their healthcare needs.

king.senate.gov
Aug 26, 2026

If the President’s misguided trade war further escalates, the processed lobsters could be taxed again when they are shipped back from Canada to the United States.

king.senate.gov
Aug 21, 2026

Our sailors and Marines signed up to serve and to be treated with respect. They did not sign up to be kept at sea indefinitely with no announced return date and, by multiple accounts, without reliable food, hot water, or working plumbing.

king.senate.gov

Other voices in this conversation