Charles Sumner: “One is a crime which history can never pardon: the other is a mistake…”

On the record

One is a crime which history can never pardon: the other is a mistake over which history will drop a tear.

Said by

Massachusetts

Source

This quote contrasts the historical consequences of treason and mistakes, suggesting a more forgiving view of the latter.

More from Charles Sumner

The only Constitutional party and party of freedom, VII. 38.

Consent of the governed necessary in forming new governments of, XII. 298.

Disunion no remedy for grievances of, VII. 33.

Women’s National League, petition of, for universal emancipation, X. 300.

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Charles Sumner: “One is a crime which history can never pardon: the other is a mistake over which history will drop a tear.”