On the record
In advising the repeal of the Fugitive Slave Act, it is enough to show that it is founded on usurpation by Congress of power not granted by the Constitution.
Source
gutenberg.orgEditor's note · Context
Sumner argues for the repeal of the Fugitive Slave Act based on its unconstitutional foundation.
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In this contest, we may borrow from the ancient Greek, who, when his hands were cut off, fought with his stumps, and even with his teeth.
I agree with the Convention in the importance of the new organization; nor do I think there are many candid persons, recognizing morals as the soul of all true politics, who will hesitate in this conclusion.
Again I repeat, so long as the War System prevails under the sanction of International Law, these painful incongruities will be apparent.
As the Brotherhood of Man is practically recognized, it becomes impossible to restrict the feeling within any exclusive circle of country, and to set up an unchristian distinction of honor between civil war and international war.
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