“Despotism is a long crime.”
- February 26, 1802 – May 22, 1885
- Born in France
- Author, poet, playwright
- Written novels and poems such as “Les Miserables” and “Notre-Dame de Paris,” he was a representative figure of French Romantic literature and had a worldwide influence.
Quote
“Despotism is a long crime.”
Explanation
In this quote, Victor Hugo condemns despotism—the form of government where a single ruler holds absolute power—as a prolonged and continuous injustice. By calling it a “long crime,” Hugo emphasizes that despotism is not just an isolated act of wrongdoing, but a sustained violation of the rights and freedoms of individuals. The cruelty and oppression of a despotic regime are not limited to single moments of abuse but are carried out over time, systematically undermining the dignity and autonomy of the people it governs.
Hugo’s words reflect his belief in the inherent injustice of any system where power is concentrated in the hands of a few, and where individuals suffer under tyranny for long periods. For him, despotism is a moral crime that stretches far beyond the actions of the ruler, affecting the lives and freedoms of an entire population.
In modern terms, this quote speaks to the injustice of authoritarian regimes and the long-lasting harm they inflict on societies. It reminds us that tyranny is not a brief incident but an ongoing violation of basic human rights. It serves as a cautionary reminder that power should be held accountable and that systems of oppression cause harm not only in the immediate moment, but continue to affect the moral and social fabric of society over time.
