Etymology
The term "filibuster" is derived from the Spanish word "filibustero," which originally meant "pirate" or "freebooter." The term was later used to describe American adventurers who took part in political expeditions to Latin America in the 19th century.
Meaning
In the United States, a filibuster is a tactic used in the Senate to delay or prevent a vote on a bill. It is typically done by one or more senators who speak for hours or even days on end, in an attempt to exhaust the opposition and force them to abandon their efforts.
Origin
The practice of filibustering originated in the early days of the United States Senate. In 1789, Senator William Maclay of Pennsylvania filibustered against a bill to establish a national bank. Maclay spoke for hours on end, reading from the Bible and making irrelevant points, in an attempt to prevent the bill from coming to a vote.
The use of filibusters became more common in the 19th century, as the Senate became more partisan and the stakes of legislation increased. Some of the most famous filibusters in history include those by Senator John C. Calhoun of South Carolina against the Tariff of 1833, and by Senator Huey Long of Louisiana against the National Recovery Administration in 1935.
Current Use
Filibusters are still used in the Senate today, although they are less common than they once were. In recent years, filibusters have been used to delay or prevent votes on a wide range of issues, including healthcare reform, gun control, and climate change.
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Etymology The term filibuster is derived from the Spanish word filibustero which ori
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Etymology From Middle English affray from Old French effrei or effray fright terror
Etymology The term filibuster is derived from the Spanish word filibustero which ori
Etymology Germanic Friðurik Meaning Peaceful ruler or ruler who brings peace
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Etymology The word freebooter is derived from the Middle Low German word vributir mean
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Etymology The word delay comes from the Old French word delaier meaning to put off
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