There are others who aim at popularity under the disguise of

“There are others who aim at popularity under the disguise of patriotism.” Thus warned Jonathan Mayhew, a fiery preacher of colonial America, whose voice rang out in the years before the Revolution. In this short yet piercing sentence, he unmasks a truth as old as politics itself: that men will often clothe their selfish ambitions in the sacred garment of patriotism, seeking not the good of the people, but the praise of the crowd. His words remind us that not all who wave the banner of the nation do so with pure hearts.

The origin of this saying lies in the tumult of the eighteenth century, when the American colonies wrestled with questions of liberty, loyalty, and power. Mayhew, who fiercely defended the cause of freedom, saw clearly that even noble causes could be corrupted. Some men would speak loudly of patriotism, yet in their hearts cared only for their own power and popularity. By cloaking themselves in the language of national duty, they deceived the people, winning applause while serving themselves. Mayhew’s warning echoes across centuries: beware of those who use the sacred word “patriot” as a mask.

History has shown us the danger of such deception. Consider the story of Napoleon Bonaparte, who rose from the chaos of the French Revolution. He wrapped himself in the mantle of the Republic, declaring that his wars and his rule were for the glory of France. The people, weary of turmoil, cheered him as a hero, believing his patriotism to be pure. Yet in truth, much of his ambition was personal: the pursuit of empire, power, and eternal fame. The disguise of patriotism won him loyalty, but it also plunged Europe into years of bloodshed. Thus Mayhew’s words find confirmation: popularity gained through false patriotism leads not to liberty, but to ruin.

And yet, there are also examples of men who wore patriotism not as disguise, but as truth. Think of George Washington, who could have made himself king after victory in the American Revolution, for the people adored him. Yet he refused such temptation, laying down power when he might have seized it. His patriotism was not disguise, but sacrifice: the willingness to place the republic above his own glory. By contrast to the false patriots, Washington proves that true love of country does not seek popularity, but the preservation of the nation’s soul.

Mayhew’s insight also warns us of the subtle temptation within ourselves. For who among us has not desired the praise of others, even when cloaking our ambition in noble words? The mask of patriotism is powerful because it appeals to the highest instincts of the people: their love for homeland, their devotion to freedom, their pride in identity. When these instincts are exploited by those seeking applause, the people may be led astray, cheering what in truth harms them. Thus, vigilance is required—not only against leaders who deceive, but against our own eagerness to follow the loudest voice.

The lesson for future generations is this: do not measure a person’s patriotism by the fervor of their words, but by the fruit of their deeds. True patriotism is often quiet, requiring sacrifice, service, and humility. False patriotism is loud, clamoring for applause, yet empty of sacrifice. The difference lies not in how brightly the flag is waved, but in whether actions serve the people or only the self.

Practical actions follow from this wisdom. Test the words of leaders against their deeds. Ask: do they enrich themselves while demanding sacrifice from others? Do they silence dissent by calling it disloyalty? Or do they serve quietly, giving of themselves without seeking personal glory? Likewise, let each of us guard our own hearts, ensuring that when we speak of patriotism, it is not for praise, but for truth. Let us be builders of community, defenders of justice, servants of the common good—these are the signs of the true patriot.

So let Mayhew’s words be remembered: “There are others who aim at popularity under the disguise of patriotism.” Take them as both warning and guide. For the world has always had false patriots, but it has also been blessed by true ones—those who, like Washington, place principle above popularity. Let us strive to walk in their path, that our patriotism be not disguise, but light, shining for the good of all.