On the record
My argument is, that, if, to carry out the prohibition of Slavery, and to complete the duty of Abolition, it shall be regarded necessary to confer the franchise, it is within the power of Congress so to do.
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gutenberg.orgEditor's note · Context
Sumner argues that Congress has the authority to grant voting rights as part of fulfilling its duty to abolish slavery, linking civil rights to political rights.
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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 first is a heavenly sentiment, from God: the other is a device of this world.
Men are erring and mortal; principles are steadfast and immortal.
According to recent calculations, its annual cost is not less than a thousand millions of dollars.
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