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Ethnic groups Quote by Simon Schama

“When imperial powers fray at the edges, ethnic groups perceived to be the beneficiaries of their trust suddenly start to look like aliens not natives, however long they may have been settled.” quote by Simon Schama
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““When imperial powers fray at the edges, ethnic groups perceived to be the beneficiaries of their trust suddenly start to look like aliens not natives, however long they may have been settled.””

Simon Schama

About This Quote

Source Book: The Story of the Jews, 2013

When empires weaken, marginalized groups are suddenly labeled as outsiders, despite long‑term settlement.

In simple terms: Power shifts create new “others.”

Key Takeaway

Beware of scapegoating.

Themes

politics identity colonialism

Mood

critical reflective

Type

historical analytical

When to use this quote

  • immigrant communities
  • post‑colonial societies
  • nationalist movements

Key Concepts

history social theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do power dynamics reshape group perceptions?
  • What can prevent labeling long‑settled peoples as aliens?
A Different Perspective

Historical narratives can oversimplify complex identities.

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