Introduction

Imagine a scenario where Martians, advanced yet unfamiliar to human society, invaded the United States in 1936. How might President Franklin D. Roosevelt (FDR) have responded in this unprecedented situation? This article explores potential strategies and responses of FDR, drawing parallels from historical contexts and contemporary strategic thinking.

Understanding the Invasion Scenario

The concept of an alien invasion lacks historical precedent and rational justification. Historically, invasions were typically motivated by the acquisition of resources such as food or minerals, or as a result of strategic shortages faced by the invaders. The idea that Martians would invade for no apparent reason is more aligned with science fiction rather than reality.

The Unlikely Emissary

Assuming, for the sake of argument, that a Martian emissary demands resources from Earth, there is no logical reason for them to single out the United States specifically. Any logical rationale would be highly improbable, akin to Douglas Adams' Infinite Improbability Engine, where the concept defies all known logic and reasoning.

Communication and Diplomacy

In such a scenario, the best course of action for FDR might have been to establish a communication channel with the Martians as quickly as possible. Assume for this imaginative scenario that FDR would have ordered the Flash Gordon comic strip's hero to be dispatched as a diplomatic envoy, or at the very least, to prepare for negotiations.

Flash Gordon, a popular comic strip of the era, would have been well-versed in navigating strange alien worlds and would have understood the complex dynamics of intergalactic diplomacy. While this is highly fictional, the context would have been similar to diplomatic overtures between different cultures and nations.

The WWII Analogy

A more realistic comparison can be made to the invasion of the United States in Philip Poulton's Worldwar franchise. In this series, advanced aliens arrive during World War II, technologically comparable to our current level. They misinterpret human progress and believe they can easily overpower us. However, as the series unfolds, the United States and other major powers begin to fight back effectively and even achieve strategic advantages.

Strategic Response and Negotiation

In this analogy, FDR would have had to develop a comprehensive strategy for defending the nation and negotiating terms with the Martians. This would involve:

Defensive Measures: Mobilizing the resources of the nation for a coordinated defense, similar to the total war effort during World War II. Diplomatic Channels: Establishing communication and negotiation channels with the aliens, emphasizing mutual benefit and understanding. Military Response: Preparing for and engaging in strategic battles, adapting to the Martian technology and tactics. Peace Negotiations: Ultimately, seeking a peaceful resolution through mutually beneficial agreements, potentially similar to those that might be reached after a protracted conflict.

Conclusion

While the invasion of the United States by Martians in 1936 is a purely hypothetical scenario, the strategic response of Franklin D. Roosevelt could have drawn upon the principles of diplomacy, defense, and negotiation. By preparing for the worst, FDR could have ensured not only the survival of the nation but also the advancement of human understanding and peaceful coexistence with extraterrestrial beings.