Political Quotes

On the record
Accordingly, in all cases where his master stands indifferent, the reason for excluding the slave is not so strong as for excluding white persons of inferior condition, since the slave may feel the sanction of an oath as much as they, while he is less exposed to any disturbing influence.
Said by
Charles Sumner
Massachusetts

Editor's note · Context

Sumner argues that the reasons for excluding slave testimony are weaker than those for excluding white individuals of lower status, as slaves can feel the weight of an oath.

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