Ten Tariff Questions Never Asked | RealClearPolitics - Victor Davis Hanson

Why do most nations prefer trade surpluses and protective tariffs? -  Victor Davis Hanson 

1. President Donald Trump's so-called "trade war."
Many call the American effort to obtain either tariff parity or a reduction in the roughly $1 trillion trade deficit and 50 years of consecutive trade deficits a "trade war." 

But then what do they call the policies of the past half-century by Europe, Asia, China, and others to ensure asymmetrical tariffs, pseudo-health and security trade restrictions, and large surpluses?
A trade peace? Trade fairness?
2. Do nations prefer surpluses or deficits?
Why do most nations prefer trade surpluses and protective tariffs?...
3. Would our trade partners prefer to trade places with us?...

• What's next?

If there soon is a rush of nations to cut a deal with the U.S. and not to be left out of the American market, will there follow another hysterical Wall Street spasm -- but not to sell, but instead to buy stocks at bargain prices?