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Blow Quote by Voltairine de Cleyre

“The revolution is ... the blow dealt ... agains the counter force of tyranny, which has never entirely recovered from the blow, but which from then till now has gone on remolding and regrappling the instruments of governmental power, that the Revolution sought to shape and hold as defenses of…” quote by Voltairine de Cleyre
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“The revolution is ... the blow dealt ... agains the counter force of tyranny, which has never entirely recovered from the blow, but which from then till now has gone on remolding and regrappling the instruments of governmental power, that the Revolution sought to shape and hold as defenses of liberty.”

Voltairine de Cleyre

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Revolution and Tyranny, 1880s

The revolution weakens tyranny, but tyrannical powers constantly adapt and reshape themselves, threatening liberty.

In simple terms: Revolutions damage oppression, yet tyrants keep changing tactics.

Key Takeaway

Stay vigilant against evolving threats to freedom.

Themes

politics freedom power revolution

Mood

cautious reflective

Type

political historical

When to use this quote

  • government reform
  • civil rights activism
  • policy analysis
  • historical study

Key Concepts

tyranny institutional adaptation resistance

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can societies guard against the re‑emergence of tyranny?
  • What mechanisms keep power accountable?
A Different Perspective

Even after a revolution, new structures can become oppressive if not monitored.

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