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I am a person who has never used violence himself. My present opinion is that people who have obtained the ballot should use it and solve their problems in that way. In the case of peoples who have not obtained the ballot, and who cannot control their states, I again find in my own mind a division of opinion, which is not logical, but purely a rough practical judgment. My own forefathers got their political freedom by violence; that is to say, they overthrew the British crown and made themselves a free Republic. Also by violence they put an end to the enslavement of the black race on this continent.

Upton Sinclair#6

PoliticsHistoryViolenceRightsStrategy

About this quote

What does it mean?
The author prefers voting for political change but acknowledges violence was historically necessary for freedom and ending slavery.
In plain terms
Vote to fix problems but know violence built this country.
What can you take from it?
Peaceful methods are preferred but historical violence is recognized.

Where it applies

  • political strategy
  • historical analysis
  • ethical debate

Putting it to work

  • prioritizing voting
  • acknowledging historical context

Questions to consider

  • When is violence justified?
  • How effective is voting?

Another view

Relying solely on voting ignores systemic barriers.

More from Upton Sinclair

  1. American capitalism is predatory, and American politics are corrupt: The same thing is true in England and the same in France; but in all these three countries…

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  2. All art is propaganda. It is universally and inescapably propaganda; sometimes unconsciously, but often deliberately, propaganda.

    Permalink to quote #7
  3. I have lived in Germany and know its language and literature, and the spirit and ideals of its rulers. Having given many years to a study of American capitalis…

    Permalink to quote #4

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