It may be republican according to the imperfect notions of an earlier period, or even according to the standard of Montesquieu; but it cannot be republican in a country which began its national life in disregard of received notions and the standards of the past.
Sumner argues that a constitution cannot be republican if it adheres to outdated notions of governance.
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More from Charles Sumner
Sovereignty of, belongs to the people, XVI. 28.
Contrary to Christianity, but upheld by the Church, I. 54, 58.
Disunion no remedy for grievances of, VII. 33.
Opening of United States courts to colored, XI. 389.
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