This document analyzes the persistence of popular neoliberalism in California that began with the tax revolt movement of the 1970s. It discusses how the tax revolt was inspired by fears of taxation and spending, and how similar movements then spread beyond California. The tea party protests of 2009 were fueled by similar fears and used symbolic connections to the Boston Tea Party to gain legitimacy while advocating for neoliberal policies. The analysis concludes that fear has been effectively used together with patriotic symbolism of the Boston Tea Party to create a popular identity supportive of neoliberalism despite it sometimes being contrary to individual interests.

1. In the Face of Fear: The Persistence of Popular Neoliberalism in California By Daniel Villanueva

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