Henry A. Wallace: American Fascist Power
on Monday, November 28, 2016Former Vice President to Franklin D. Roosevelt, Henry A. Wallace Money Quote saying no doubt there is a sliding scale of fascism from extreme to mild – so important watch where that scale settles. Henry A. Wallace said:
“If we define an American fascist as one who in case of conflict puts money and power ahead of human beings, then there are undoubtedly several million fascists in the United States” — Henry A. Wallace
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In this quote, Henry A. Wallace seems to be expanding on his previous criticism of fascists by arguing that their defining trait is prioritizing money and power over human welfare. A few key points:
- He suggests an “American fascist” can be defined as someone who, when faced with a choice, opts to pursue wealth/profits or authority/control rather than consider people’s well-being.
- Wallace then contends there are likely “several million” such individuals in the United States based on this definition, implying the mentality was not uncommon.
- He appears to be accusing many American leaders, politicians and businessmen of being willing to sacrifice citizens’ lives or livelihoods if it benefits their own financial or political ambitions.
- The quote conveys Wallace’s view that a self-serving focus on accumulating money and dominating others politically at the expense of humanity was a defining characteristic of both foreign and domestic fascism in his era.
Overall, Wallace aims to broadly define and critique what he saw as a concerning fascist mindset present among some in the U.S. – one that disregards people in favor of elevating the personal pursuit of wealth and power above all other priorities.
Birthday: October 7, 1888 – Death: November 18, 1965