The contemporary meaning of the word “populismPopulism” differs from that given originally in America. It referred then to the “people”, primarily those who did not have the large resources or assets of that minority of individuals who did have them. It also emphasized the significance of those engaged in farming rather than industry. By the late twentieth century, while still referring to those who lacked them, populismPopulism was mainly associated with right-wing political movements, some of which were racist and where individual politicians sought its leadership. Thus the equality promoted originally made way for a role for people which was primarily to demonstrate support for such leaders. In contemporary America those leaders are often hostile to others who were educated and who also advocated many aspects of social justice. Although not formally linked to religious groups, these movements are usually critical of defences by secular society. Typically, populist leaders now also strongly support police actions taken against social groups of whom they disapprove. This further strengthens links between contemporary American populismPopulism and the political right.