Welfare Wealthy Quote by Howard Zinn
““Middle-class Americans might be invited to join a new elite by attacks against the corruption of the established rich. The New Yorker Cadwallader Colden, in his Address to the Freeholders in 1747, attacked the wealthy as tax dodgers unconcerned with the welfare of others (although he himself was wealthy) and spoke for the honesty and dependability of “the midling rank of mankind” in whom citizens could best trust “our liberty & Property.” This was to become a critically important rhetorical device for the rule of the few, who would speak to the many of “our” liberty, “our” property, “our” country.””
About This Quote
The passage describes how 18th‑century rhetoric framed middle‑class citizens as a trustworthy middle rank, using liberty, property, and country to legitimize elite rule.
In simple terms: Historical rhetoric used 'middle class' to justify elite power.
Key Takeaway
Political language can mask class interests.
Themes
political rhetoric
class dynamics
historical discourse
legitimacy
Mood
analytical
critical
Type
historical analysis
political commentary
When to use this quote
- Analyzing modern campaign slogans that invoke 'the people' to support elite policies.
- Studying school curricula that present history from a dominant class perspective.
Key Concepts
critical theory
propaganda analysis
Practical Applications
- Critically examine claims of 'middle‑class' representation in political messaging.
Questions to Reflect On
- How does invoking 'middle‑class' values affect public consent?
- What modern equivalents exist for this rhetorical device?
A Different Perspective
The concept of a unified middle rank can oversimplify diverse socioeconomic realities.
