Buchanan, who was then President, declined to interfere, on the ground that what had been done was by States, and that it was contrary to the theory of our Government “to coerce a State,” thus making the pretension of State Rights the apology for imbecility.
Sumner criticizes President Buchanan for his inaction regarding the secession of Southern states, framing it as a failure of leadership.
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More from Charles Sumner
His loyalty to the Declaration of Independence, XIX. 317.
Contrary to Christianity, but upheld by the Church, I. 54, 58.
Consent of the governed necessary in forming new governments of, XII. 298.
Slavery and the: speech in New York, XI. 433.
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