Boston Brahmins are a social class of old, established Protestant families in Boston, Massachusetts, who have wielded considerable social, cultural, and political influence in the region and beyond since the 19th century. Often associated with wealth accumulated through banking, shipping, and manufacturing, they are characterized by their emphasis on education (particularly at institutions like Harvard and Yale), philanthropy, and a refined, understated lifestyle. While their direct political power has waned in recent decades, they continue to play a significant role in Boston's cultural institutions and maintain a reputation for upholding traditional values and a strong sense of civic duty.
