On the record
One of its first acts was to accept the Ordinance of Freedom for the Northwestern Territory, thus ratifying the prohibition of Slavery in all existing territory.
Source
gutenberg.orgEditor's note · Context
Sumner highlights the significance of the Ordinance of Freedom in the context of slavery's prohibition.
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Their existence is a disgrace to civilization; for it implies the common consent of nations to the Arbitrament of War, as regulated by these laws.
The first is a heavenly sentiment, from God: the other is a device of this world.
It applies an arrogant and unrelenting ostracism to all who express themselves against Slavery.
It is clear that the only question of present practical interest arises from the usurpations of the Slave Power and the efforts to extend Slavery.
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