DOUGHFACEISM Meaning and
Definition
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Doughfaceism is a term used to describe a political ideology or sentiment that is characterized by a lack of strong moral principles, particularly when it comes to taking a stand against slavery or addressing other divisive issues. The term originated in the United States during the mid-19th century, specifically during the time leading up to the American Civil War.
A "doughface" refers to an individual, typically a politician, who is pliable and easily molded, like dough. A doughface is highly susceptible to external influences and often lacks a steadfast commitment to their own convictions. Therefore, doughfaceism refers to the tendency to exhibit such characteristics.
The term is often associated with politicians in Northern states who were sympathetic to the Southern cause and were reluctant to take a firm stance against slavery. These politicians were often motivated by personal gain, political expediency, or a desire to maintain harmony between the North and the South. As a result, doughfaceism represents a lack of moral courage and willingness to confront the deeply ingrained issues of the time.
Doughfaceism can also extend beyond the specific context of slavery and the Civil War. It can be applied more broadly to describe politicians or individuals who lack principles and are easily swayed by popular opinion or the agendas of others. It denotes a lack of backbone or moral fortitude in the face of important moral or political decisions.
Common Misspellings for DOUGHFACEISM
- soughfaceism
- xoughfaceism
- coughfaceism
- foughfaceism
- roughfaceism
- eoughfaceism
- diughfaceism
- dkughfaceism
- dlughfaceism
- dpughfaceism
- d0ughfaceism
- d9ughfaceism
- doyghfaceism
- dohghfaceism
- dojghfaceism
- doighfaceism
- do8ghfaceism
- do7ghfaceism
- doufhfaceism
Etymology of DOUGHFACEISM
The word "Doughfaceism" originated in the United States during the mid-19th century, particularly in reference to the politics and policies of that era. It is derived from two components: "doughface" and the suffix "-ism".
The term "doughface" itself emerged earlier in the 19th century as a derogatory epithet used to describe an individual who was perceived as weak, pliable, or malleable. It primarily referred to Northern politicians who, to maintain harmony between the North and the South, were willing to compromise their principles on the issue of slavery. The term was often used to suggest that these individuals had soft, dough-like faces that lacked firmness or resolve.
The addition of the suffix "-ism" to "doughface" led to the formation of "Doughfaceism".
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