Political Quotes

Charles Sumner: “A barbarous standard is established; the duel is not dishonorable; a contest peculiar to our Slave-Masters, known as a…”

On the record
A barbarous standard is established; the duel is not dishonorable; a contest peculiar to our Slave-Masters, known as a “street fight,” is not shameful; and modern imitators of Cain have a mark set upon them, not for reproach and condemnation, but for compliment and approval.
Said by
Charles Sumner
Massachusetts

Editor's note · Context

Sumner critiques societal norms that glorify violence and dueling, particularly in the context of slavery.

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