American revolution Quote by Howard Zinn
““Carl Degler says (Out of Our Past): “No new social class came to power through the door of the American revolution. The men who engineered the revolt were largely members of the colonial ruling class.” George Washington was the richest man in America. John Hancock was a prosperous Boston merchant. Benjamin Franklin was a wealthy printer. And so on.””
About This Quote
Source Book: A People's History of the United States, Howard Zinn, 1980
The American Revolution did not create a new ruling class; it was led by existing elite elites who retained power afterward.
In simple terms: Revolution kept the same rich leaders in charge.
Key Takeaway
Recognize how power structures persist despite political change.
Themes
history
power
inequality
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
historical
analytical
When to use this quote
- political analysis
- education
- activism
- public discourse
Key Concepts
social class
revolution
elite continuity
Questions to Reflect On
- How did ordinary people influence the revolution?
- What mechanisms allow elites to maintain dominance?
A Different Perspective
The quote overlooks grassroots contributions and popular movements that also shaped the era.
![“I John Hancock, . . . being advanced in years and being of perfect mind and memory-thanks be given to God-therefore calling to mind the mortality of my body and knowing it is appointed for all men once to die [Hebrews 9:27], do make and ordain this my last will and testament...Principally and…” quote by John Hancock](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/a62/john-hancock-23217_bible_i-john-hancock-being-advanced-in-years-a_3223232.jpg)
![“The important point of this report [Montague, Massachusetts; July 7, 1774] may be summed up in six resolutions: 1. We approve of the plan for a Continental Congress September 1, at Philadelphia. 2. We urge the disuse of India teas and British goods. 3. We will act for the suppression of pedlers…” quote by Edward Pearson Pressey](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/708/edward-pearson-pressey-61813_american-revolution_the-important-point-of-this-report-monta_135169.jpg)