I'm trying to ignore politics until at least September, but I can't help hearing about how wonderful it is to have a candidate who promises real change. As a history buff and former social studies teacher, I think it's interesting that no one sees how this phenomenon fits in with history. Promising change is nothing new. Giving impressive, impassioned speeches is nothing new. Unfortunately, the most powerful speakers who promised the biggest changes ended up being leaders none of us would support - in hind sight, of course.
Fidel Castro - If you haven't studied him, you should know that he denied being Communist when he was trying to get support. On April 25, 1959 he said communist "influence is nothing. I don't agree with communism. We are democracy. We are against all kinds of dictators.... That is why we oppose communism." The Cuban people were so desperate for a better life that they eagerly accepted and supported Castro's message and promises of change. They overlooked the obvious lies (and blatant ties to terrorism) and placed their faith in this leader. Their other choice? Another dictator (Batista) who brought in all kinds of tourist dollars, but neglected the majority of the citizens, who were struggling to put food on the table. They had to choose the lesser of two evils, but did they make the right decision in supporting Castro and his message of change? Judging by all the Cuban illegal immigrants who have risked their lives since then, and even lost their lives, to come to the United States....well...you decide.
Adolf Hitler - Certainly the most famous world-changer in modern history. He gave impressive, empowering speeches that filled the nation with hope. His message was change at all cost. The German people were in a severe depression and desperate for change, even if it meant ostracizing their friends and family who believed differently. Freedom of speech? Obviously not. In the beginning, the Nazi party was widely supported and celebrated under Hitler. Anyone who had opposing views was ridiculed, jailed, and eventually killed. Just for the record, Hitler did change Germany for the better - temporarily at least. He gave them what they wanted, convinced them to trust him with a dictatorship, and then showed his true colors.
They say history repeats itself - but only when we forget the lessons of the past.
2 comments:
Oh, my! I have been saying this for months, but even conservatives avert their eyes and change the subject. No one wants to believe that a US President could become a dictator. You may have prompted me to write a letter to the editor of the Borger News-Herald. Thank you for your very sobering words so eloquently written!
Amen sista! I completely agree with you! I may have to share your entry with a few people! I'll give you credit, of course!
If he wins I believe we will be in some serious trouble.
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