Tyranny is Tyranny
Susan Nevin
The reading we read for this lesson, Tyranny is Tyranny, focused on the process the United States had to go through to separate from British rule, and gain their independence. The reading opens discussing how the English needed the Colonies wealth for than the Colonies needed the support of England. This was one of the bigger reasons that lead to the rebellions and eventual war, because the English needed America more than America needed them. In addition, the article showed how the people had the power, especially the lower class.
Specifically, Tom Paine, author of Common Sense, made the first real argument towards the idea of American independence. I found this super interesting, as Common Sense was a pamphlet geared towards the common people. After writing this, Paine became a figurehead for this movement, and emphasized the power of the common people. He did this through relating to them, as Paine was just a poor immigrant who came to America. He initially seemed to give a voice to the lower and middle class, but later on showed his allegiance to the wealthy, when he became an associate of Robert Morris. I found this switch of side interesting, as his rise to popularity through this speeches that connected to the lower class
I also found it very interesting how Paine was able to relate to the common people, but also elites at the same time. It seems necessary that a person needs to be proficient at relating to multiple groups of people, be it by class, race, etc, to effectively mobilize people.
I definitely agree that relatability helps gain support and mobilization. However, it is tricky when the groups of people one relates too contradict one another. This is where is becomes tricky and dangerous in terms of losing the support of one or both groups. Authenticity or at a minimum perceived authenticity are very important.