On the record
It is impossible, without violence to the spirit and letter of the Constitution, to claim for Congress any power to legislate either for its abolition in the States or its support anywhere.
Source
gutenberg.orgEditor's note · Context
He asserts that Congress lacks the constitutional authority to legislate on slavery within the states.
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More from Charles Sumner
The subterfuges of the politician cannot escape it.
The devices of party can no longer stave it off.
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.
Tendencies of nations, as revealed in history, teach that our aims are in harmony with prevailing laws, which God, in his benevolence, has ordained for mankind.
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