On the record
International Law leaves to each nation, precisely as the Municipal Law leaves to each citizen, what company to keep or what copartnership to form.
Source
gutenberg.orgEditor's note · Context
Sumner emphasizes the autonomy of nations in forming alliances, likening it to individual citizens' rights.
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It is a cause which, though long kept in check throughout our country, as also in Europe, now confronts the people and their rulers, demanding to be heard.
It is true, doubtless, that there are various races of men; but there is but one great Human Family, in which Caucasian, Ethiopian, Chinese, and Indian are all brothers, children of one Father, and heirs to one happiness.
The subterfuges of the politician cannot escape it.
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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