In 1815, John Adams wrote to Thomas Jefferson about the true nature of the American Revolution, emphasizing that it wasn’t just a war but a transformation in the minds of the people, cultivated over 15 years prior to the violence at Lexington. This conviction and sense of independence were vital for overcoming the British Empire. The author relates this historical insight to their own movement, BIG, which critiques concentrated power and advocates for public education.
Over six years, BIG has documented significant socio-economic trends, revealing a rise in inequality and oligarchy, particularly as the number of billionaires has grown. However, there is optimism as public opinion is shifting; dissatisfaction with corporate power is growing, and people are beginning to recognize coercion in economic transactions.
The article highlights three recent victories associated with BIG. Firstly, investigative reporting prompted congressional hearings on issues related to monopolies in the fire apparatus industry. Secondly, California passed a law outlawing coercive pricing algorithms based on non-public data, marking an ideological victory against systemic coercion. Lastly, BIG successfully challenged lobbyists undermining the Antitrust Division, reinforcing ongoing monopolization cases against major corporations.
The author concludes with a call for continued public awareness and activism to challenge oligarchies, echoing Adams’s notion that revolutions begin in the minds of the people. They invite readers to contribute to the movement and support the newsletter.
