Subject
Slavery -- Justification Books
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Cotton is King, and Pro-Slavery Arguments Comprising the Writings of Hammond, Harper, Christy, Stringfellow, Hodge, Bledsoe, and Cartrwright on this Important Subject
"Cotton Is King, and Pro-Slavery Arguments" by E. N. Elliott is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. This work delves into the complex and contentious issues surrounding slavery in the United States, particularly from the perspective of Southern pro-slavery advocates. It is likely aimed at defending the institution of slavery in the wake of rising abolitionist sentiments and serves to present various arguments supporting the economic and social viability of slavery in the Southern states. The opening of "Cotton Is King" sets a serious tone, addressing the deep division in American society caused by the slavery debate. Elliott critiques the growing estrangement between North and South, emphasizing the dangers posed to American liberties and governmental stability. He outlines the historical context of slavery, highlighting the emergence of a political party focused solely on opposing the interests of the South. Additionally, he defines slavery in a way that distinguishes it from chattel status, arguing that enslaved individuals in the South have mutual obligations with their masters. His introduction seeks to frame slavery as a benevolent institution, one necessary for the economic prosperity of the South and beneficial for both enslaved individuals and society as a whole, thereby laying the groundwork for the subsequent discussions and arguments from various pro-slavery writers included in the compilation.
George Fitzhugh
Cannibals all! or, Slaves without masters
"Cannibals All! or, Slaves Without Masters" by George Fitzhugh is a polemical treatise written in the mid-19th century. This work argues for the institution of slavery, positing that the conditions faced by free laborers in society are often worse than those experienced by slaves. Fitzhugh presents the concept of "white slavery," suggesting that capitalists exploit laborers more ruthlessly than slave owners treat their slaves. The opening of the book outlines Fitzhugh's key argument: that all individuals, particularly those in more privileged social classes, are complicit in a system that exploits those who labor while enriching those who do not. He uses stark language to challenge readers, accusing them of practicing a form of cannibalism by thriving off the unremunerated labor of others. He further elaborates on the dynamics of labor, capital, and social relations, suggesting that the capitalist system creates a situation where free laborers are left as "slaves without a master," burdened with responsibilities and cares that their slave counterparts are exempt from. This sets the stage for a broader critique of societal structures and the moral implications of economic systems, which Fitzhugh believes ultimately necessitate a re-evaluation of the institution of slavery itself.
Robert Lewis Dabney
A Defence of Virginia And Through Her, of the South, in Recent and Pending Contests Against the Sectional Party
"A Defence of Virginia" by Robert Lewis Dabney is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book serves as a justification for the institution of slavery and the Southern cause during and after the American Civil War, arguing that the principles of slavery are both moral and historically valid. Dabney presents a defense of Virginia and through it, the Southern states, against what he perceives as a misrepresentation by abolitionists and their sympathizers. The opening of the text introduces the author's intent to defend Virginia, whom he views as slandered by the Northern anti-slavery sentiments that emerged during and after the Civil War. Dabney critiques the moral and social judgments placed upon Southern slavery, asserting that such judgments are rooted in a misunderstanding of history and human rights. He emphasizes that while other nations and regions continued the practice of slavery, the Southern states were unfairly targeted for disdain. Dabney sets the tone for a thorough examination of the ethical and scriptural justifications for slavery, asserting the need for a historical perspective that acknowledges Virginia's significance and the complexities surrounding the institution of slavery in America. This summary covers only the opening portion of the book.
F. A. (Frederick Augustus) Ross
Slavery Ordained of God
"Slavery Ordained of God" by F. A. Ross is a historical account written during the mid-19th century. The text presents a series of speeches and letters arguing the theological justification of slavery, claiming it is an institution ordained by God under specific circumstances of human society. The author argues for the benefits of slavery for both the enslaved and the slaveholder, advocating that it should not be viewed as sin and must be recognized within a biblically framed context for the sake of unity and harmony between the North and South. The opening of the work sets the stage for its central theme by presenting Ross's intention to address the contentious issue of slavery from a Christian perspective. In a speech delivered to the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church, Ross challenges the Northern perspective on slavery as inherently sinful. He encourages a reevaluation of the relationship between master and slave, arguing that, under certain conditions, this relationship could be beneficial and not sinful. He suggests that both Northern and Southern Christians need to come together in understanding the complexities of this relationship, advocating for a theological foundation that offers peace and harmony amidst the divisive debates of the time.
John H. Van Evrie
Negroes and Negro "Slavery:" the first an inferior race: the latter its normal condition.
"Negroes and Negro 'Slavery:' the first an inferior race: the latter its normal condition" by J. H. Van Evrie, M.D. is a controversial treatise written in the mid-19th century. The work argues against the abolitionist movement, asserting that it is based on erroneous beliefs about racial equality and the nature of slavery. The author positions the black race as inherently inferior and maintains that slavery is the natural condition for those of African descent. At the start of the book, the author presents a preface discussing the political and social turmoil in America amid the rising anti-slavery sentiment and the onset of the Civil War. He critiques the abolitionist movement as rooted in delusion and foreign influence, particularly from European ideals. Van Evrie aims to provide a justification for the existing social order in the southern United States, asserting that it is rooted in natural law and necessity rather than moral failing. He sets the stage for a detailed exploration of the supposed differences between races, intending to argue for the social subordination of African Americans as not just preferable but essential for societal stability.
T. W. (True Worthy) Hoit
The Right of American Slavery
"The Right of American Slavery" by T. W. Hoit is a controversial treatise advocating for the institution of slavery, published in the tumultuous period leading up to the American Civil War during the early 1860s. This work presents itself as a philosophical justification for slavery based on a belief in the inferiority of the African race compared to European Americans. The author argues that slavery is a moral and civil necessity, asserting that it serves the greater good of civilization by protecting and uplifting those he views as inherently barbaric. In this book, Hoit outlines his views on the nature of African people, asserting they are "barbarians" who are thus suited for slavery. He draws on historical and contemporary examples to argue that civilizations have a right and obligation to dominate and "civilize" those he perceives as less capable. Throughout the work, he dismisses emancipation, regarding it as a moral error with catastrophic potential, forecasting ruin should society abandon the institution of slavery. Overall, Hoit's arguments reflect a deeply entrenched racist ideology that seeks to rationalize and defend slavery while warning against the dangers of social and political equality with African Americans.
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