Insurrection, n. An unsuccessful revolution. Disaffection's failure to substitute misrule for bad government.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- An insurrection is a failed attempt to overthrow authority, where the rebels cannot replace bad leadership with something better.
- In plain terms
- A rebellion that fails to improve things is just a failed revolt.
- What can you take from it?
- Success matters more than intent in political change.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Can a failed revolution still be meaningful?
- What defines success in political change?
Another view
It oversimplifies cases where even failed uprisings lead to long-term reform.
More from Ambrose Bierce
In'ards, n. pl. The stomach, heart, soul, and other bowels.
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Permalink to quote #48 Infancy, n. The period of our lives when, according to Wordsworth, 'Heaven lies about us.' The world begins lying about us pretty soon afterward.
Permalink to quote #45
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