On the record
The negroes here seem to have a vague idea that they are free; but little change in their relations to their old masters is perceptible.
Said by
Whitelaw Reid
Source
gutenberg.orgWhitelaw Reid: “The negroes here seem to have a vague idea that they are free; but little change in their relations to their old masters…”
Editor's note · Context
Reid observes the limited perception of freedom among formerly enslaved individuals in the South after the Civil War.
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It has proved, also, that universal suffrage is the surest guarantee and most powerful stimulus of individual, social and political progress.
Never was there a problem more serious or difficult than that which is now before the Nation, as to this race, whose destiny has been confided to the wisdom and honor of our Government.
Our national experience has demonstrated that public order reposes most securely on the broad base of universal suffrage.
And it is both natural and right that colored Americans, entitled to the rights of citizens, should claim their exercise.