Political Quotes

Charles Sumner: “Meetings of the people in ancient Athens were opened with these words: “May the gods doom to perdition that man, and all…”

On the record
Meetings of the people in ancient Athens were opened with these words: “May the gods doom to perdition that man, and all his race, who, on this occasion, shall speak, act, or contrive anything against the Commonwealth!” With such an imprecation all were summoned to the duties of the citizen.
Said by
Charles Sumner
Massachusetts

Editor's note · Context

Sumner cites an ancient Athenian practice to emphasize the importance of civic duty and accountability.

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