Subject
Slavery -- United States -- Speeches in Congress Books
Best books
Jefferson Davis
Speeches of the Hon. Jefferson Davis, of Mississippi; delivered during the summer of 1858.
"Speeches of the Honorable Jefferson Davis, of Mississippi; delivered during the summer of 1858" is a collection of speeches and addresses made by Jefferson Davis, likely compiled in the mid-19th century. This work provides insights into Davis's political views and sentiments during a pivotal time in American history, particularly as sectional tensions were mounting toward the American Civil War. The speeches reflect his positions on various issues, including state rights, national unity, and the institution of slavery, representing the voice of a Southern leader during an era of conflict. The beginning of the work introduces Jefferson Davis's intentions for compiling his speeches, prompted by misrepresentations of his views at both the North and the South. It outlines the significant occasions on which these speeches were delivered, with emphasis on his address on Independence Day at sea, where he reflects on the unity and progress of the United States, contrasting it with the challenges faced by the nation. The opening portion showcases his eloquent and passionate rhetoric, addressing topics of national pride, the importance of unity among the states, and the rights of Southern citizens while asserting the necessity for strong national governance amid growing sectional divides. Through his words, Davis articulates both his personal reflections and broader political themes that resonate with the historical context of his time.
Caleb Cushing
Speech of Mr. Cushing, of Massachusetts, on the Right of Petition, as Connected with Petitions for the Abolition of Slavery and the Slave Trade in the District of Columbia. In The House Of Representatives, January 25, 1836.
"Speech of Mr. Cushing, of Massachusetts, on the Right of Petition" by Caleb Cushing is a historical speech delivered in the House of Representatives in the early 19th century. This document addresses the critical issue of the right to petition the government, particularly in the context of petitions advocating for the abolition of slavery and the slave trade in the District of Columbia. Written during a period marked by intense debate over slavery, the speech underscores the fundamental democratic principle that citizens have the inherent right to voice their grievances and seek redress from their government. In his speech, Cushing emphasizes that the right of petition is not a privilege granted by Congress but a pre-existing right protected by the Constitution. He argues that the House has a responsibility to receive and consider petitions respectfully, regardless of the subject matter. Cushing recounts the legislative history regarding similar petitions and highlights how previous Congresses have engaged with such issues without denying the right of petition. He warns against the consequences of refusing to hear these petitions, suggesting that suppression only fuels further agitation. Throughout, Cushing appeals to the members of Congress to uphold democratic values and protect the rights of their constituents, ultimately inviting the public to hold representatives accountable for their actions.
Cydnor Bailey Tompkins
Slavery: What it was, what it has done, what it intends to do Speech of Hon. Cydnor B. Tompkins, of Ohio
"Slavery: What it was, what it has done, what it intends to do" by Tompkins is a historical speech delivered in the House of Representatives in the early 1860s. The book presents a compelling argument against the institution of slavery, discussing its moral, social, and political implications. As a work of historical significance, it reflects the intense debates occurring in pre-Civil War America, focusing specifically on the injustices and aggressions associated with slavery. In his speech, Tompkins articulates the founding fathers' anti-slavery sentiments, highlighting their opposition to the practice and presenting a series of historical resolutions that condemn slavery. He argues that slavery is not only a moral injustice but also detrimental to society, claiming that it creates a class of uneducated and impoverished free white laborers. Furthermore, he warns against the aggressive expansion of slavery into new territories, emphasizing the need to uphold the principles of liberty and justice established by the nation’s founders. Overall, Tompkins' address serves as both a critique of slavery's implications and a call to action for the defense of freedom in the United States.
John M. (John Morgan) Landrum
The Slavery Question Speech of Hon. John M. Landrum, of La., Delivered in the House of Representatives, April 27, 1860
"The Slavery Question" by John M. Landrum is a political speech delivered in the House of Representatives in the early 1860s, likely during the period leading up to the Civil War. This book is a historical account that explores the contentious issue of slavery in the United States and articulates the author's defense of the Democratic party's stance on the matter. Primarily, the work scrutinizes the tensions between pro-slavery and anti-slavery factions within the context of the emerging sectional conflicts of the time. In his speech, Landrum defends the Democratic party against accusations of being responsible for the discord concerning slavery. He argues that the founders of the Republic made compromises regarding slavery to form a united government and that these historical precedents should guide current legislative actions. Landrum contends that the Republican party, with its anti-slavery agenda, is the true source of agitation, having shifted the narrative toward a moral condemnation of slavery. He emphasizes that the Constitution does not prohibit slavery in the territories and highlights historical examples where slavery was accepted and regulated within the framework of the early American government. Throughout his argument, Landrum seeks to portray the Southern perspective as a principled stand for the rights guaranteed by the Constitution and the legacy of the Founding Fathers.
Recently surfaced classics