Unraveling the Origin of ‘Politics Makes Strange Bedfellows’: History, Meaning, and Application

Introduction

The phrase “Politics makes strange bedfellows” is a widely recognized idiom in the English language, often cited to describe the unlikely alliances and partnerships that emerge in the world of politics. Whether you’re a student of history, a political enthusiast, or simply curious about the origins of popular sayings, understanding who first coined this phrase, how it evolved, and what it signifies in political and social contexts can offer valuable insight into the ever-shifting landscape of power and influence.

The Origin of the Phrase

While “Politics makes strange bedfellows” is commonly attributed to American journalist Charles Dudley Warner (1829-1900), the roots of the phrase actually trace back even further to the works of William Shakespeare . In his play
The Tempest
, Shakespeare writes, “Misery acquaints a man with strange bedfellows” [3] . This original context used the phrase to describe how adversity can force people into unlikely company. Over time, Warner adapted the phrase to the realm of politics, giving us the modern version that is so frequently quoted today [1] .

Who First Said ‘Politics Makes Strange Bedfellows’?

The earliest known use of “Politics makes strange bedfellows” in its current form is credited to Charles Dudley Warner , who used the expression in the 19th century. Warner was an American essayist and close friend of Mark Twain, known for his social commentary and wit [1] . While Warner’s adaptation popularized the phrase, Shakespeare’s earlier wording set the stage for its eventual use in political discourse [3] .

The Evolution of the Phrase

Shakespeare’s phrase, “Misery acquaints a man with strange bedfellows,” was originally used in a literal sense, referring to the character Trinculo seeking shelter with the monstrous Caliban. As the phrase entered common usage, its meaning broadened to describe how difficult circumstances-political or otherwise-can result in unexpected alliances [3] . Charles Dudley Warner’s application of the phrase to politics captured the essence of coalition-building, compromise, and the necessity of working with unlikely partners to achieve shared goals.

The Meaning and Application in Modern Politics

Today, “Politics makes strange bedfellows” is used to comment on the pragmatic, sometimes awkward partnerships that emerge when individuals or groups with opposing views find common cause. For example, politicians from different parties may unite to pass legislation, or advocacy groups with seemingly incompatible values may collaborate to achieve a specific policy objective [2] . The phrase highlights the complex, strategic nature of politics, where shared interests often outweigh ideological differences.

Real-World Examples

Throughout history, the formation of coalitions and alliances has illustrated the truth behind this saying. For instance, during times of war or national crisis, political rivals may temporarily set aside their differences to unite for the common good. In modern times, bipartisan efforts on public health, infrastructure, or education reform demonstrate how necessity can bridge ideological divides. In a famous 1899 political cartoon by Louis Dalrymple, the phrase was depicted visually to underscore the unlikely partnerships formed in the service of political strategy [4] .

How the Phrase Is Used Today

Whether in news articles, political commentary, or everyday conversation, “Politics makes strange bedfellows” remains a go-to expression for discussing the unpredictable alliances that shape public policy. It is frequently cited when describing coalition governments, cross-party agreements, or the unification of advocacy groups from different parts of the political spectrum [5] . The phrase is also used beyond politics, applied to any situation where necessity fosters unlikely cooperation.

Applying the Lesson: Navigating Unlikely Partnerships

If you find yourself needing to form an alliance with an unexpected partner-whether in business, community organizing, or public service-consider the following steps:

Identify Shared Goals: Focus on common objectives rather than differences. Establishing clear, mutual benefits builds trust and clarifies the purpose of the partnership.
Set Boundaries: Agree on the scope of your collaboration. Define what the partnership will and won’t entail to avoid misunderstandings.
Communicate Transparently: Maintain open, honest communication. Address concerns early, and revisit agreements as circumstances change.
Document Agreements: Keep a written record of your partnership terms, responsibilities, and intended outcomes.
Review and Adjust: Regularly assess the progress of your partnership and remain open to renegotiation or exit if necessary.

When you encounter a situation requiring collaboration with unlikely partners, it may be helpful to research examples of successful coalitions in your field. For political professionals or community organizers, resources on effective coalition-building can usually be found through local government offices, academic institutions, or professional associations. If you are looking for case studies or further reading, consider searching reputable news organizations or academic databases for “political coalitions,” “bipartisan alliances,” or “cross-sector partnerships.”

Challenges and Solutions in Forming Unlikely Alliances

Building partnerships with unlikely allies is not without challenges. Differences in values, communication styles, or expectations can create friction. To address these issues:

Engage in Active Listening: Make an effort to understand your partner’s perspective and motivations.
Establish Conflict Resolution Mechanisms: Agree in advance on how to handle disputes.
Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge progress and successes along the way to reinforce collaboration.

Alternative approaches include seeking the involvement of a neutral third party, such as a mediator or facilitator, or limiting the partnership to a specific project with a defined endpoint.

Alternative Interpretations and Broader Usage

While most commonly associated with politics, the phrase “strange bedfellows” now appears in business, social activism, and even pop culture. Its versatility stems from the universal experience of compromise and unexpected cooperation. Some commentators have offered playful variations, linking the phrase to marriage, war, or other forms of partnership to underscore its relevance in many aspects of life [1] .

Summary

The saying “Politics makes strange bedfellows” encapsulates the reality that necessity often forges partnerships between unlikely allies. First adapted by Charles Dudley Warner and inspired by Shakespeare, the phrase remains a powerful metaphor for the compromises and coalitions that are essential to effective governance and social progress. Recognizing the origins and meaning of this phrase can help you better understand-and navigate-the complex alliances that shape our world.