In the United States today, the Declaration of Independence hangs on schoolroom walls, but foreign policy follows Machiavelli.

In this quote, Howard Zinn critiques the gap between the ideals presented in the Declaration of Independence and the reality of U.S. foreign policy. Zinn points out that while the Declaration of Independence—which emphasizes freedom, equality, and the pursuit of justice—is often displayed in schools as a symbol of American values, the country's actions on the global stage often follow the principles of Machiavelli. Niccolò Machiavelli, a Renaissance political philosopher, is known for advocating realpolitik, a pragmatic and sometimes ruthless approach to politics where the ends justify the means, often involving manipulation and deception.

Zinn’s statement implies that U.S. foreign policy is not guided by the moral and democratic ideals of the Declaration but by power politics and self-interest, often at the expense of others. He contrasts the high ideals of the Declaration of Independence, which advocates for self-determination and liberty, with the more cynical and manipulative strategies seen in international relations. Zinn suggests that there is a disconnect between the country's founding principles and the way it conducts its business on the world stage, where military force, economic leverage, and diplomatic maneuvering often take precedence.

The origin of this quote is found in Howard Zinn’s works, particularly in his "A People's History of the United States," where he provides a critical, often unconventional view of American history. Zinn was an historian and social activist who sought to expose the contradictions and injustices within American society, including the ways in which the country’s actions often conflicted with its stated ideals. His quote serves as a commentary on how U.S. foreign policy can deviate from the democratic principles espoused in its founding documents.

Ultimately, Zinn’s quote underscores the tension between the American idealism represented by the Declaration of Independence and the realpolitik approach often taken in foreign policy. It calls for reflection on how the United States can better align its actions on the global stage with the values of freedom and justice that it claims to champion.