The Surprising History You Need To Know: Sic Semper Tyrannis

Throughout human history, sic semper tyrannis has been linked to some of the most famous instances of political revolution. The latin phrase, which translates literally to thus always to tyrants, is meant to express a feeling of revolution and the inevitable demise of tyrannical rulers. Sic semper tyrannis is a latin phrase meaning thus always to tyrants. In contemporary parlance, it means tyrannical leaders will inevitably be overthrown. The phrase also suggests that bad but justified outcomes should, or eventually will, befall tyrants.

Sic semper tyrannis is a phrase with a somewhat problematic history. Some sources have claimed that this was spoken by brutus as he delivered the knife blow to julius caesar. John wilkes booth is likewise said to have claimed the same utterance was made when he assassinated abraham lincoln. 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. When john wilkes booth put a bullet in abraham lincolns head at fords theatre on april 14th. 1865, he jumped over the balcony rail onto the stage, broke his leg, then stood up, faced the audience, and proclaimed sic semper tyrannis, or thus always to tyrants! 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.