Breakdown:

1. Capitalism and America’s Birth:
   • The birth of capitalism and the founding of the United States are deeply intertwined, as both occurred around the same time in 1776.
   • The U.S. Constitution was designed to reflect capitalist principles, following the failure of the Articles of Confederation. The new constitution aimed to create a hierarchical society that favored the rich.
2. Influence of John Locke:
   • John Locke, a key figure in shaping political thought, heavily influenced the design of American governance. Locke’s “Second Treatise on Government” and his role in drafting the Constitution of the Carolinas embedded slavery as a permanent institution.
   • Locke’s constitution also aimed to create a new noble class to reinforce social hierarchies, showing that the protection of property and wealth was central to early American political systems.
3. Electoral Republic and the Power of the Elite:
   • The Constitution created an electoral republic rather than a hereditary monarchy. However, this system still heavily favored the elite, as the average citizen had little understanding of politics or governance.
   • The structure of elections and political campaigns in the U.S. means that politicians are beholden to wealthy donors who fund their campaigns. This leads to policies that benefit the rich, as politicians must prioritize the interests of their donors to stay in power.
4. Political Influence of Donors:
   • Barack Obama, in his book, describes how politicians often get caught up in the personal dramas of wealthy donors. Over time, politicians become more concerned with the interests of the rich who fund their campaigns, rather than the average voter.
   • This dynamic ensures that the laws and policies created by the government serve the interests of the wealthy, perpetuating a system where the rich maintain control.
5. Madison’s Intent:
   • James Madison explicitly stated in his letters that the Constitution was designed to leave power in the hands of the wealthy. This was done to ensure that the country would be governed by those with property and influence, reinforcing the capitalist and hierarchical structure of American society from its inception.

Conclusion: The founding of the United States was deeply linked with the birth of capitalism, creating a political system that structurally favored the rich. The Constitution, influenced by thinkers like John Locke and designed by figures like Madison, ensured that wealth and power remained in the hands of the elite, with politicians beholden to wealthy donors rather than the general populace.