Distrust of Aristocracy

Definition

This term refers to skepticism or lack of trust towards aristocracy - a class traditionally considered superior due to their wealth or inherited titles. In American history this distrust led many people towards democratic ideals and away from systems resembling European monarchies.

Analogy

Imagine if your school decided that only students whose parents were alumni could be on student council. You'd probably feel pretty skeptical about whether they'd make decisions benefiting all students equally - this is similar to how some felt about aristocracies!

Related terms

Democracy: A system where power is vested in people who rule either directly or through freely elected representatives.

Populism: A political approach that seeks to disrupt traditional power structures and appeal directly to 'the people', often characterized by distrust towards elites.

American Revolution: The war between Great Britain and its thirteen American colonies, which led to the formation of the United States. This revolution was fueled in part by distrust of British aristocracy.