On the recordMay 19, 1856
We allow slavery to exist in the slave States--not because slavery is right or good, but from the necessities of our Union.
Source
gutenberg.orgWe allow slavery to exist in the slave States--not because slavery is right or good, but from the necessities of our Union.
Lincoln explains the pragmatic reason for tolerating slavery in existing states, emphasizing the preservation of the Union over moral approval of slavery.
Share
More from Abraham Lincoln
If I were to try to read, much less answer, all the attacks made on me, this shop might as well be closed for any other business.
I am considering, and shall not fail to act when satisfied that action will be proper.
Unlike a case of war between independent nations, there is no organized organ for us to treat with,--no one man has authority to give up the rebellion for any other man.