Sic Semper Tyrannis: A Critical Examination

This article aims to address common challenges in understanding sic semper tyrannis, exploring its historical context, its various interpretations, and its enduring relevance in contemporary discourse. Sic semper tyrannis (thus always to tyrants) is the most famous latin slogan around. Its been the state motto of virginia since 1776. John wilkes booth shouted it the moment he assassinated. Sic semper tyrannis is a latin phrase meaning thus always to tyrants.

The phrase also suggests that bad but justified outcomes should, or eventually will, befall tyrants. It is the state motto of the u. s. The phrase sic semper tyrannis crossed into american history and political culture during the colonial era, and it remains one of the most famous latin phrases used in the united states. It reflects the deeply rooted american belief in republicanism and resistance to tyranny. John wilkes booth, who assassinated lincoln, is said to have screamed the states motto sic semper tyrannis, or thus always to tyrants before making his escape. White supremacy, as both an organizing principle and foundational creed, has been an integral part of our history and identity. Sic semper tyrannis, latin for thus unto tyrants, was famously spoken by john wilkes booth following the assassination of president abraham lincoln at fords theater in washington d. c. Booths words harkened back to the assassination of another supposed tyrant two thousand years before, gaius julius caesar. In this guest post for the history of emotions blog, he addresses some of the themes from his recent book entitled narratives of dictatorship in the age of revolution. Emotions, power and legitimacy in the atlantic space.