To the editor:
We tend to forget American history very quickly. But given today’s events I thought it would be good to review some history lessons from the past. First in 1776 the residence of the east coast (called the United Colonies) rebelled against having a King rule them and created the United States of American. Again in 1812 our ancestors fought off the King of England. Good to remember that we were born of not wanting to be ruled by a King.
It is also good to remember how dictators have come to rule throughout history. They have these common traits: They create a group of people to blame for all social problems, the economy and other troubles.
They punish their political opponents.
They reduce, control and interrupt education.
They try to control the press. They try and conquer neighboring countries.
They remove military leaders and replace them with their followers.
They ignore court decisions.
They hold a military parade to honor themselves (usually on their birthday).
They surround themselves with “yes men” and hold control over them.
They favor the rich, creating oligarchies.
While many of these dictators eventually fell, at least three notable ones, Russia, North Korea, and Iran, remain. Our forefathers created a government with a system of checks and balances between three branches of government to prevent such things from happening here.
Dan Inman Northport
