Me: The American Navy was sent to Manila Bay to engage the Spanish. The battle was over in 45 minutes. The American commander famously sent this communication, "Have defeated the Spanish. What do I do next?" The biggest problem was the Moros in Mindanao. The Moros were Muslims.
And the suppression of the Filipinos was ruthless. I think they tried rising up then. I may be wrong.
Friend: The US Army developed the .45 caliber handgun to stop the Moros. We were using .38 caliber handguns, but they weren't working. Colt came up with a .45 caliber handgun that did the job.
Me: War is a dirty business. You can't acquire, conquer and control without violence or the threat of it. Comical that when we're not warring, we tend to moralize those who are. The human condition.
Are you familiar with the book Guns, Germs and Steel by Jared Diamond? Came out in the years we were in Thailand. If you aren't, try to listen to one of his interviews on YouTube. He talks about the Spanish conquistadors arriving in the New World. Since you mentioned the introduction of a new weapon and how it changed the battlefield, you'll really like his take.
Friend: Intriguing re the revolver. My great-grandfather surveyed the US/Canadian border. I wonder if he packed. Likely.
Me: Here's my maternal great-grandfather. Buried in Shorterville, Alabama. Classic mustache. He looks like he might have packed. Lol
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