On the record
As to the general character of the negroes, the common testimony seemed to be that their behavior would compare favorably with that of any other class of the laboring population.
Said by
Whitelaw Reid
Source
gutenberg.orgWhitelaw Reid: “As to the general character of the negroes, the common testimony seemed to be that their behavior would compare…”
Editor's note · Context
Reid comments on the behavior of African Americans in the South, suggesting they are comparable to other laboring classes.
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Let me repeat, that I think it best for all men—white men, black men, and brown men, if you make that distinction, that all men of proper age and unconvicted of crime, should have the right of suffrage.
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.
He who has that right will usually respect himself more, be more respected, perform more, and more productive work, and do more to increase the wealth and welfare of the community, than he who has it not.
Our national experience has demonstrated that public order reposes most securely on the broad base of universal suffrage.