Introduction

The current political and social divide is not accidental or natural. It has been deliberately cultivated and orchestrated by the powerful to maintain their dominance over labor, thereby consolidating their economic power. By fostering divisions and keeping workers divided, the establishment ensures that the collective power of the working class is undermined, allowing the privileged few to maintain their control.

The Divide and Conquer Strategy

Capital and Government

Over the past few decades, the wealthy have extended their influence over the workings of government. This control has accelerated in recent years. For instance, the Trump administration completely neglected antitrust enforcement, and the pro-capital faction on the Supreme Court is now debating the constitutionality of the National Labor Relations Board. Their goal is to strip workers of any tools that could interrupt their concentration of wealth.

Political Divisions

The current political and racial divisions in the United States have been deliberately stoked by the same wealthy elite. One of their greatest triumphs was breaking the Pullman strike in 1894 by pitting white workers against Black workers. The media played a crucial role in shaping this narrative, spreading the idea that Black workers were the enemy.

Racial Animosity and Social Stability

For centuries, white Southern workers have been told that their economic struggles are not as bad as they could be, as long as they are not Black. This narrative has been used to maintain social stability among the working-class whites. Millions of working-class Southerners have given their lives in defense of property belonging to a small number of wealthy men.

The Media's Role

The media, which is heavily influenced by capital, reports on issues that divide the public. In doing so, they avoid highlighting the issues that could unite people. For example, they depict organizing health care in a way that would free the working class from individual insurance as unrealistic, even though it aligns with the majority of American workers' opinions.

Conclusion

As we continue to debate superficial issues, the powerful are using racism and other divisions to sew the fabric of society tight. Our opportunities to stop this are slipping away, and it is crucial that we recognize these divisions for what they are – tools used by the privileged to maintain control. By understanding how these divisions are being created and maintained, we can work towards unity and collective power to improve our lives and the world around us.