They defined with tolerable distinctness in what respects they did consider all men created equal,--equal with "certain inalienable rights, among which are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness." This they said, and this they meant.
In his speech on the Dred Scott decision, Lincoln clarifies the Founders' intent regarding the equality of men as stated in the Declaration of Independence.
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Or, if one out of four will, for his own freedom fight to keep the other three in slavery, he ought to be a slave for his selfish meanness.
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.
Grant that he desires the elective franchise, will he not attain it sooner by saving the already advanced steps towards it, than by running backward over them?
In answer to the Senate's resolution of the 6th instant, requesting the return of a certain joint resolution, I transmit a report from the Secretary of State.
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