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About this quote

What does it mean?
The quote questions whether the subjugation of millions is self‑imposed rather than imposed by the English.
In plain terms
It suggests Indians have enslaved themselves, not the English.
What can you take from it?
Examine internal factors contributing to oppression.

Where it applies

  • historical analysis
  • political debate
  • social reform

Putting it to work

  • study systemic causes
  • encourage self‑empowerment

Questions to consider

  • What internal dynamics enable oppression?
  • How can self‑agency be fostered?

Another view

Simplifies complex colonial history.

More from Leo Tolstoy

  1. Such are the scientific justifications of the principle of coercion. They are not merely weak but absolutely invalid, yet they are so much needed by those who …

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  2. When the Indians complain that the English have enslaved them it is as if drunkards complained that the spirit-dealers ...have enslaved them. You tell them tha…

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  3. ...obsolete religious justification of violence which consisted in the recognition of the supernatural personality of the God-ordained ruler ('there is no powe…

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