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It hurt the economic historians, the Marxists and the…

“It hurt the economic historians, the Marxists and the fabians, to admit that the Ten Hour Bill, the basic piece of 19th century legislation, came down from the top, out of aa nobleman's private feelings about the Gospel, or that the abolition of the slave trade was achieved, not through the…” quote by Barbara Tuchman
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“It hurt the economic historians, the Marxists and the fabians, to admit that the Ten Hour Bill, the basic piece of 19th century legislation, came down from the top, out of aa nobleman's private feelings about the Gospel, or that the abolition of the slave trade was achieved, not through the operation of some "law" of profit and loss, but peurlet as the result of tyhe new humanitarianism of the Evangelicals.”

Barbara Tuchman

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Historical reforms often arise from moral or religious motivations rather than purely economic logic.

In simple terms: Moral forces can drive major reforms.

Key Takeaway

Recognize ethical motives in policy change.

Themes

history ethics policy change humanitarianism religion

Mood

reflective inquisitive

Type

historical analytical

When to use this quote

  • legislative history
  • social movements
  • ethical debates

Key Concepts

moral impetus economic theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • What role do personal beliefs play in shaping public policy?
  • Can economic analysis fully explain social reforms?
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