Skip to content

Dictatorship Quote by George Orwell

“One does not establish a dictatorship in order to safeguard a revolution; one makes the revolution in order to establish the dictatorship.” quote by George Orwell
Download Open image
““One does not establish a dictatorship in order to safeguard a revolution; one makes the revolution in order to establish the dictatorship.””

George Orwell

About This Quote

Source Essay: Politics and the English Language, 1946

Power can be seized by turning revolutionary ideals into authoritarian rule.

In simple terms: Revolution can become dictatorship.

Key Takeaway

Stay vigilant against power abuse.

Themes

politics power revolution

Mood

critical concerned

Type

political philosophical

When to use this quote

  • social movements
  • government reforms
  • activist strategies
  • policy making

Key Concepts

political theory authoritarianism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What safeguards prevent revolutions from becoming tyrannies?
  • How can citizens hold leaders accountable?
A Different Perspective

Revolutionary zeal can be co-opted.

4.1 out of 5 (5 ratings)

More by George Orwell

Explore all 1,657 George Orwell quotes

More Dictatorship quotes

Browse all 793 Dictatorship quotes