The United States of America, founded as a constitutional republic, has long prided itself on its commitment to individual liberty and free-market principles. However, beneath the facade of liberty lies a subtle alignment with Marxist ideology, as evidenced by the implementation of the 10 planks of the Communist Manifesto. In this article, we delve into each plank and examine how and when they have been incorporated into American society, shedding light on the creeping influence of Marxist ideals in the land of the free.
- Abolition of Private Property:
While the concept of private property remains a cornerstone of American society, the gradual erosion of property rights has been evident throughout history. From eminent domain laws to civil asset forfeiture, Americans have witnessed a steady encroachment on their property rights by the government, leading to increased centralization of wealth and power. - Heavy Progressive Income Tax:
The implementation of a progressive income tax in the USA dates back to the ratification of the 16th Amendment in 1913. This amendment granted Congress the power to levy income taxes, leading to the establishment of a progressive tax system that disproportionately burdens the wealthy and redistributes wealth to fund government programs. - Abolition of All Rights of Inheritance:
While outright abolition of inheritance rights has not occurred in the USA, the imposition of estate taxes and inheritance taxes serves to diminish the transfer of wealth between generations. These taxes erode family wealth and contribute to the concentration of wealth in the hands of the state. - Confiscation of Property of All Emigrants and Rebels:
While not explicitly stated in American law, civil asset forfeiture laws empower law enforcement agencies to seize property from individuals suspected of criminal activity, often without due process. This practice effectively allows the state to confiscate property from citizens deemed to be in rebellion against its authority. - Centralization of Credit in the Hands of the State:
The establishment of the Federal Reserve System in 1913 marked a significant step towards centralizing credit in the hands of the state. Through its control of the money supply and interest rates, the Federal Reserve wields immense power over the economy, influencing lending practices and monetary policy. - Centralization of the Means of Communication and Transport in the Hands of the State:
While the means of communication and transport in the USA are primarily in private hands, government regulation and intervention have increasingly encroached on these industries. From FCC regulations on telecommunications to TSA security measures in transportation, the state exerts significant control over these vital sectors. - Extension of Factories and Instruments of Production Owned by the State:
While outright nationalization of industries is rare in the USA, government intervention in key sectors such as healthcare, education, and energy has led to increased state ownership and control. Programs like Medicare and Medicaid, public education, and subsidies for renewable energy represent steps towards state ownership of production. - Equal Liability of All to Labor:
While the USA espouses the principles of equality and meritocracy, systemic barriers and disparities in access to opportunities persist. Income inequality, wage stagnation, and discrimination in the workplace undermine the notion of equal liability to labor, perpetuating socioeconomic divides. - Combination of Agriculture with Manufacturing Industries; Gradual Abolition of the Distinction Between Town and Country:
The consolidation of agricultural and manufacturing industries has been facilitated by government policies and subsidies that favor large corporations over small farmers and rural communities. This trend towards industrial agriculture has led to the decline of family farms and the erosion of rural economies. - Free Education for All Children in Public Schools:
The establishment of universal public education in the USA has been a cornerstone of American democracy, providing access to education for all children regardless of socioeconomic status. However, concerns about government control and indoctrination in public schools have fueled debates about the efficacy and fairness of the education system.
While America prides itself on its commitment to individual liberty and free-market principles, the implementation of the 10 planks of the Communist Manifesto reveals a subtle alignment with Marxist ideology. From the erosion of property rights to the centralization of credit and industry, America has gradually moved towards a more centralized and authoritarian state. By examining each plank in detail, we gain a deeper understanding of the socio-political forces at play in American society and the implications for the future of liberty.
