Letters from an American January 31, 2026
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Feb 1, 2026 A deep look at Stephen Miller's proposal for an imported labor class and its echoes of 19th century 'mudsill' arguments. A contrast with Lincoln's free labor idea and a reflection on how founding ideals clash with racial hierarchy. Discussion of elite impunity tied to the Epstein revelations and recent political maneuvers, plus scenes of federal force and a surprising Texas election upset.
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Modern Call For A Labor Class
- Stephen Miller advocated importing a labor class excluded from citizenship and political rights.
- Heather Cox Richardson links this to a historical white nationalist hierarchy that rejects broad civic inclusion.
Hammond’s Mudsill Argument
- Senator James Henry Hammond argued in 1858 that society needs a 'mudsill' class of docile workers to support elites.
- He warned that giving such workers the vote would allow them to overturn elite power through the ballot box.
Free Labor Versus Hereditary Hierarchy
- Abraham Lincoln rejected the mudsill theory and promoted 'free labor' as the engine of American opportunity.
- Lincoln argued workers could rise, buy tools or land, and eventually hire others, embodying democratic mobility.