The moment this House undertakes to legislate upon this subject slavery, it dissolves the Union. Should it be my fortune to have a seat upon this floor, I will abandon it the instant the first decisive step is taken looking towards legislation of this subject. I will go home to preach, and if I can, practice, disunion, and civil war, if needs be. A revolution must ensue, and this republic sink in blood.
Interpretation
This quote expresses the profound consequences of legislating slavery, suggesting it could lead to the dissolution of the Union and civil strife.
In this quote, James Henry Hammond warns of the severe consequences that would follow if legislation were enacted regarding slavery. He asserts that such actions would not only lead to the disintegration of the Union but also advocate for rebellion and bloodshed, illustrating the deep divisions and moral crises surrounding the institution of slavery in his time. Hammond reflects a belief that compromising on this issue could lead to catastrophic outcomes for the nation and its values.
In practice
In a historical debate on civil rights, this quote can illustrate the stakes involved in legislative decisions.
The practical revolutionary will understand Goethe's 'conscience is the virtue of observers and not of agents of action'; in action, one does not always enjoy the luxury of a decision that is consistent both with one's individual conscience and the good of mankind.
How oft, in nations gone corrupt, And by their own devices brought down to servitude, That man chooses bondage before liberty. Bondage with ease before strenuous liberty.
The real mystery is this strange need. Why can't we just hide it and shut up? Why do we have to blab? Why do human beings need to confess?
I speak to the paper, as I speak to the first person I meet.
He whose head is in heaven need not fear to put his feet into the grave.
No change of circumstances can repair a defect of character.
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