Filibusterer Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฃ๏ธ
filibusterer
[หfษชlษชหbสstษrษr ]
Definition
political strategy
A filibusterer is a member of a legislative body, particularly in the United States, who employs the tactic of speaking at length to delay or prevent a vote on a proposal or policy. This strategy is often used to obstruct legislative action by holding the floor and refusing to yield to other members wishing to speak.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The filibusterer spoke for hours to delay the vote.
- A notorious filibusterer, he became famous for his lengthy speeches.
- The senator played the role of a filibusterer to protect his interests.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Political History
- The practice of filibustering dates back to the early 19th century in the United States Senate, becoming a popular tool for minority groups to stall legislation.
- One of the longest filibusters lasted over 24 hours when Senator Strom Thurmond spoke against the Civil Rights Act of 1957 to delay its passage.
Legal Framework
- The U.S. Senate allows filibusters, but it requires a supermajority to end them, meaning 60 out of 100 senators must agree to proceed.
- Some proposals suggest reforms to limit the use of filibusters, arguing they can obstruct important legislative progress.
Cultural References
- Filibusters appear in films and TV shows, often depicted as an exaggerated or comedic tactic to show the struggle in politics.
- The term has been used in various songs and literature to illustrate themes of delay, obstruction, and debate.
International Practices
- Other countries have similar tactics to filibustering, but they may operate under different rules and terms.
- In the UK Parliament, for example, long speeches can also be used as a means to delay decisions, though it is not called filibustering.
Psychological Aspects
- Filibustering can be seen as a strategy of power dynamics, where one group uses delay to gain leverage over another.
- Studies suggest that extensive talking instead of action in meetings can lead to frustration and disengagement among listeners.
Origin of 'filibusterer'
The term 'filibuster' stems from the Spanish word 'filibustero', which originally referred to pirates, particularly those who took part in the illegal trading and raiding. The evolution of the word into American political jargon occurred in the 19th century. It became associated with obstructive tactics used by legislators to extend debate and prevent decisions on laws. The practice, closely related to the concept of free speech within legislative bodies, has roots in the U.S. Senate and is historically linked to battles over the passage of civil rights legislation and other contentious issues. Over time, the emphasis on individual senators' rights to prolong debate has led to the development of formal rules and exceptions regarding filibusters in legislative procedures.