Meaning: The quote, "A power has risen up in the government greater than the people themselves, consisting of many and various and powerful interests, combined into one mass, and held together by the cohesive power of the vast surplus in the banks," is attributed to John C. Calhoun, a prominent American statesman and political theorist. This quote encapsulates Calhoun's concerns about the influence of powerful interests and financial institutions on the government, reflecting his views on the nature of power and its potential to undermine the democratic principles of the United States.

John C. Calhoun was a leading political figure in the United States during the first half of the 19th century. He served as the vice president of the United States under Presidents John Quincy Adams and Andrew Jackson and was also a prominent advocate for states' rights and the institution of slavery. Throughout his career, Calhoun was a vocal proponent of the rights of the individual states and was deeply concerned about the potential for centralized power to infringe upon those rights.

In the quote, Calhoun expresses his apprehension about a concentration of power within the government that is separate from and, in his view, more influential than the collective will of the people. He suggests that this power is comprised of "many and various and powerful interests," indicating that it is not a monolithic entity but rather a confluence of diverse and influential groups. These interests, according to Calhoun, have coalesced into a formidable force that wields significant influence over the operations of the government.

Furthermore, Calhoun highlights the role of financial institutions, specifically referencing the "vast surplus in the banks," as the cohesive power that holds these various interests together. This observation underscores his belief in the significant influence of economic resources and financial institutions in shaping political power and decision-making. Calhoun's concerns about the influence of financial institutions and their ability to consolidate power align with his broader views on the potential for economic interests to dominate political processes.

The quote reflects Calhoun's deep-seated fears about the erosion of democratic principles and the potential for power to become concentrated in the hands of a select few, particularly those with significant economic resources. His concerns about the influence of powerful interests and financial institutions on the government are indicative of his skepticism toward centralized authority and his unwavering commitment to the principles of states' rights and limited government intervention.

Calhoun's views on the nature of power and its potential to be wielded by powerful interests remain relevant in contemporary political discourse. The interplay between economic power, special interests, and government decision-making continues to be a subject of debate and scrutiny. The quote serves as a reminder of the enduring tensions between democratic ideals and the realities of power dynamics within political systems, prompting ongoing reflection on the nature of influence and the mechanisms that shape governance.

In conclusion, John C. Calhoun's quote encapsulates his concerns about the rising influence of powerful interests and financial institutions within the government, reflecting his broader views on the nature of power and its potential to undermine democratic principles. His apprehension about the concentration of power and the role of economic resources in shaping political dynamics speaks to enduring tensions within democratic systems and continues to provoke contemplation on the nature of influence and governance.