Equality discussed by Andrew Jackson in 1832

This is Andrew Jackson in 1832, sounding not that different from Donald Trump.

It is to be regretted that the rich and powerful too often bend the acts of government to their selfish purposes. Distinctions in society will always exist under every just government. Equality of talents, of education, or of wealth can not be produced by human institutions. In the full enjoyment of the gifts of heaven and the fruits of superior industry, economy, and virtue, every man is equally entitled to protection by law; but when the laws undertake to add to these natural and just advantages artificial distinctions, to grant titles, gratuities, and exclusive privileges, to make the rich richer and the potent more powerful, the humble members of society – the farmers, mechanics and laborers – who have neither the time nor the means of securing like favors to themselves, have a right to complain of the injustice of their government. There are no necessary evils in government. Its evils exist only in its abuses. If it would confine itself to protection, and, as Heaven does its rains, shower its favors alike on the high and low, the rich and the poor, it would be an unqualified blessing.

This is from Andrew Jackson’s Bank Veto message of 1832. The entire message is worth your time.

1 thought on “Equality discussed by Andrew Jackson in 1832

  1. Pingback: Equality discussed by Andrew Jackson in 1832 - The Rabbit Hole

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