Huey Long, also known as “The Kingfish,” was an influential American politician and lawyer during the early 20th century. Serving as the 40th Governor of Louisiana and later as a U.S. Senator, Long was known for his populist policies and fiery speeches that resonated with the working class. His words continue to inspire and provoke thought to this day. In this article, we have compiled a selection of powerful Huey Long quotes that reflect his political ideology and vision for a more equitable society.
Long was a charismatic speaker who captivated audiences with his passionate delivery and straightforward language. He advocated for the redistribution of wealth, increased taxes on the wealthy, and the implementation of social programs to uplift the disadvantaged. His quotes encapsulate his commitment to fighting for the common man and challenging the status quo.
Read on to discover some of the most memorable Huey Long quotes that offer insight into his political philosophy and provide food for thought in today’s socio-economic climate.
Read these Huey Long quotes
“Surely you’re not going to support the rich against the poor?”
“A hungry man is not a free man.”
“I’m for the poor man – all poor men, black and white, they all gotta have a chance.”
“The only way you’ll ever be free is when the machine is abolished. You’ve got to abolish the machine, and then you’ll see what will happen to you.”
“Every man a king, but no one wears a crown.”
“Share our wealth; it’s not a matter of charity, it’s a matter of justice.”
“The rich will always betray the poor.”
“It is not the difficulty of these problems which makes us afraid, but their simplicity. It is when we once see this, all else is easy.”
“When fascism comes to America, it will be wrapped in the flag and carrying a cross.”
“The only road to salvation for America is a return to faith in God and the Constitution.”
“I don’t mind being called a demagogue. A demagogue is a person with whom I agree.”
“You can’t pass laws to make the guilty innocent, but you can pass laws to prevent the innocent from being punished.”
“I’d rather go down in history as one lone Negro who dared to tell the government that it had done a dastardly thing than to save my skin by taking back what I said.”
“Don’t write anything you can phone. Don’t phone anything you can talk. Don’t talk anything you can whisper. Don’t whisper anything you can smile. Don’t smile anything you can nod. Don’t nod anything you can wink.”
“The only difference between the Republican and Democratic parties is the velocities with which their knees hit the floor when corporations knock on their door. That’s the only difference.”
“This nation can’t survive half rich and half poor.”
“I don’t have any trouble with Communists. Some of my best friends are Communists.”
“I’m not for destroying all corporations. I am for destroying only those which are trying to destroy the American people.”
“I can’t do everything, but I can do something, and I will not let what I cannot do interfere with what I can do.”
“Let us not be afraid to help each other – let us never forget that government is ourselves and not an alien power over us.”
These Huey Long quotes provide a glimpse into the mind of a passionate and dedicated politician who fought for the rights of the common man. Long’s words continue to resonate today, reminding us of the importance of addressing income inequality and advocating for social justice. Whether you agree or disagree with his views, there is no denying the impact of his ideas on American politics and society.
Take a moment to reflect on these powerful Huey Long quotes and consider their relevance in our modern world.
