However [political parties] may now and then answer…
![“However [political parties] may now and then answer popular ends, they are likely in the course of time and things, to become potent engines, by which cunning, ambitious, and unprincipled men will be enabled to subvert the power of the people and to usurp for themselves the reins of government…” quote by George Washington](https://sms4smile.com/q/img-quotes/c02/george-washington-257_ambitious_however-political-parties-may-now-and-th_1625648.jpg)
“However [political parties] may now and then answer popular ends, they are likely in the course of time and things, to become potent engines, by which cunning, ambitious, and unprincipled men will be enabled to subvert the power of the people and to usurp for themselves the reins of government, destroying afterwards the very engines which have lifted them to unjust dominion.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Political parties can start by serving public interests but may later become tools for self‑serving, unscrupulous leaders to seize power and undermine democracy.
In simple terms: Parties may become power‑grabbing tools.
Key Takeaway
Beware party manipulation of power.
Themes
politics
power
corruption
democracy
leadership
Mood
cautious
critical
reflective
Type
historical
political
warning
When to use this quote
- elections
- legislative bodies
- campaigns
- policy making
- public discourse
Key Concepts
Republicanism
elite capture
institutional decay
Questions to Reflect On
- How can citizens keep parties accountable?
- What safeguards protect democratic institutions?
A Different Perspective
Parties can also mobilize positive change and represent diverse interests.