The American Working Class and Settlerism: Why Revolution Lags Behind

Exploring the complexities of the American working class and its lack of class consciousness through the lens of settlerism, this article delves into the historical and socio-economic factors shaping American society.

Introduction to the American Working Class

The concept of the American working class, while intuitively straightforward, is often obscured by layers of historical, economic, and social dynamics. This article examines why the American working class has not developed the kind of class consciousness necessary for a truly revolutionary movement. The key factor, as we shall argue, is settlerism.

Settlerism and the Racialization of Class Status

Settlerism in the United States has played a significant role in structuring class dynamics. It is a system where the settler population, primarily identified as the descendants of European immigrants, has enjoyed a privileged status at the expense of indigenous and other people of color. These people of color serve as the permanent colonial workforce, enduring super-exploited labor conditions.

The settler population, often referred to as 'white America,' has historically been integrated into the ruling class of the United States. Their relationship with the ruling class is not merely passive; they actively participate in maintaining and extending the interests of the ruling class both domestically and internationally. They play a crucial role in enforcing the ruling class's authority through coercion, violence, and political maneuvering.

Historical Context and the Demands for Loot

The history of U.S. expansion and imperialism is intimately linked with the demands of the settler population. Whenever the U.S. empire advances, the settler population has always demanded a share of the profits. This has created a system where the white working class in America has become more privileged than their counterparts in many other countries.

Despite the cut of imperialist profits, the conditions for the white working class can be grim. However, as long as they expect to continue benefiting from these imperialist gains, they are unlikely to develop a revolutionary consciousness. The system is designed in such a way that even the most exploited members of the white population would rather turn their anger against workers of color and demand better conditions for themselves rather than unite with them.

Challenges and Potential for Change

However, all is not lost. As the decline of the U.S. empire begins to affect even the white working class more directly, there is a potential for a shift towards a more radical ideology. Yet, significant changes will need to occur before this happens naturally. Economic hardship and systemic failures might be the precipitating factors that drive workers to recognize their common interests and the need for a united front.

Conclusion: The American Working Class's Dilemma

The lack of class consciousness among the American working class is deeply rooted in the settlerist system and the racialized class structures that uphold it. While the future remains uncertain, the potential for change exists, especially as the effects of empire's decline become more pronounced. It is imperative for society to address and transform these underlying issues if true progress and justice are to be achieved.