In some trifling particulars the condition of that race has been ameliorated; but as a whole, in this country, the change between then and now is decidedly the other way; and their ultimate destiny has never appeared so hopeless as in the last three or four years.
Speaking on the Dred Scott decision, Lincoln refutes the idea that the condition of black people had improved since the Revolution, arguing it had worsened.
Share
More from Abraham Lincoln
If the end brings me out wrong, ten angels swearing I was right would make no difference.
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.
Whenever I hear any one arguing for slavery, I feel a strong impulse to see it tried on him personally.
Other voices in this conversation
