Last week, when I heard the politicians debate, it felt like I was living in ancient Rome. Many times, the emperors tried to get power or stay in power by appealing to the masses. “The State will give you free bread and wine. There will be free gladiatorial games in the arena.”
In this latest debate I heard, “We will end cash bail. We will get rid of private prisons. We will defund the police.” When you appeal to those who are breaking the law to help get you into power, you will invariably need to rely on them to keep you there.
We should be aware that there is a historical precedent here.
It’s just part of trying to “sway the masses.” Although I must admit the Emperors did give out bread and wine and hold gladiatorial games. They were good on their word!
That’s another confounding thing. People believed the promises. Not only were the promises not fulfilled, things are much, much worse. Yet people still believe the same promises. I just don’t get it. Ugh.
I hear the same, and I find that I can see them use tactics and approaches often seen in the roman political arena. We have not come quite so far in some ways
Valerie Cullers 
Wow. Good perspective.
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If we don’t learn from history, we are bound to repeat it. This is one reason why revisionist history is so dangerous & wrong. [End Rant]
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I agree completely! We must learn from our collective mistakes! Thanks for reading and commenting!
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I’ve never understood about politicians can make promises they have no authority to deliver on if elected–and people believe them. I don’t get it.
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It’s just part of trying to “sway the masses.” Although I must admit the Emperors did give out bread and wine and hold gladiatorial games. They were good on their word!
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That’s another confounding thing. People believed the promises. Not only were the promises not fulfilled, things are much, much worse. Yet people still believe the same promises. I just don’t get it. Ugh.
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People actually believe politicians…go figure!
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I can’t figure!
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As much as we need prayers for good governance, we also need to hold our leaders accountable. Voting should not be based on promises but principles.
It is often said that a small gift is better than a big promise.
God help our world.
Your piece is insightful 👍
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Such great insight Adeleke!
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I hear the same, and I find that I can see them use tactics and approaches often seen in the roman political arena. We have not come quite so far in some ways
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You are so right! Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts!!!
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