Famous quote by C. L. R. James

"The late development of mass industrial organization in the United States has both stimulated and retarded the political development of the American working class"

About this Quote

C. L. R. James's assertion in the quote reflects on the double impact of industrialization on the political evolution of the American working class. To translate this, we must consider the historic context and the ramifications of industrialization in the United States.

At first, the quote thinks about the "late development of mass commercial organization" in the U.S. Unlike European nations that started industrializing in the late 18th century, America experienced significant commercial development later on, particularly in the latter half of the 19th century and into the 20th. This delay in industrialization suggested that the political awakening and organization of the working class likewise happened later than in Europe. Nevertheless, when enormous industrialization started, it changed the American economy and society quickly and significantly.

The declaration that this development "promoted" political development can be translated to suggest that industrialization produced considerable social and financial modifications that necessitated political awareness and action amongst the working class. It produced a large, unified group of employees who shared typical interests and complaints, driving them to organize and fight for labor rights, reasonable wages, and much better working conditions. This period saw a rise in labor unions and motions, which began to put in significant political impact.

On the other hand, the claim that industrialization "retarded" political advancement reflects the idea that the rapid speed and scale of America's industrial development presented difficulties that prevented the political maturation of the working class. The economic powerhouses created by industrialization wielded considerable impact over politics, creating a powerful barrier to labor arranging and political action. Moreover, the variety and dispersal of industries and employees throughout areas made it tough for a merged, across the country political labor movement to emerge. In addition, other social and political problems, such as racial segregation and immigration, even more fragmented the working class.

In summary, C. L. R. James highlights the complex interplay of forces that both moved and prevented the political advancement of the American working class, underscoring the distinct and typically inconsistent impacts of industrialization in the United States.

About the Author

Trinidad and Tobago Flag This quote is from C. L. R. James between January 4, 1901 and May 19, 1989. He/she was a famous Journalist from Trinidad and Tobago. The author also have 29 other quotes.
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