The term ‘liberalism’ as it applies to government has a different definition than what is recognized and identified as ‘liberal’ in America, where it typically means that a personal with liberal political leanings would not support a smaller government. This, however, is what the term liberalism implies. Before the separations and party factions that are present in the political world today, there was classical liberalism that started it all.

The ideas of the likes of John Locke and Adam Smith valued free markets, limited government, private property and personal freedom—akin to what Republicans value today. On the contrary, modern liberalism is used to promote a general society through beneficial and restorative economic, political and social policy, i.e., Social Security, welfare, etc. Classical liberalism reigned in the 19th century as a revolution against dictatorship, depression and death (Goodman). As ideologies, the two are similar and different.

Both are identifiable by the word ‘liberalism,’ which under explanation, seems to be one of its few similarities. Classical liberalism was liberalism as its ancient form, which disappeared long ago. One of its main differences is believe in the power of the government and how it should bear responsibility and help its citizens. For example, income inequality plagues several societies. A classical liberal would have for individuals bring about equality on their own without government-mandated legislation and action; a modern liberal would call on the government to aid its citizens that work hard, ensuring that no one is in need. In today’s context, it would appear that classical liberalism is akin to modern conservatism today.

Modern liberalism is often compared to socialism, on the other hand. The philosophy of modern liberalism is also argued to be an evolution of classical liberalism, although historically the latter tended to favor the wealthy. It was not until the mid-to-late-1850s that classical liberalism began to dissipate.