Cities Quote by William Jennings Bryan
“New York is the city of privilege. Here is the seat of the Invisible Power represented by the allied forces of finance and industry. This Invisible Government is reactionary, sinister, unscrupulous, mercenary, and sordid. It is wanting in national ideals and devoid of conscience... This kind of government must be scourged and destroyed.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Political Commentary, early 20th century, USA
The quote condemns the influence of financial and industrial elites as a corrupt, unseen ruling class that lacks moral purpose and must be opposed.
In simple terms: Powerful elites control government without conscience, requiring resistance.
Challenge hidden elite power.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- policy reform
- public awareness campaigns
- voting decisions
- activist organizing
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does unseen power affect democracy?
- What actions can citizens take against corruption?
The quote may overgeneralize and ignore positive contributions of business.