But all must see--and nobody will deny--that Slavery is the ruling idea of this Rebellion.
Editor's note · Context
Sumner argues that slavery is the central driving force behind the rebellion.
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It is true, doubtless, that there are various races of men; but there is but one great Human Family, in which Caucasian, Ethiopian, Chinese, and Indian are all brothers, children of one Father, and heirs to one happiness.
I agree with the Convention in the importance of the new organization; nor do I think there are many candid persons, recognizing morals as the soul of all true politics, who will hesitate in this conclusion.
They are but leaders of the two contending factions into which the Slave Power is divided.
Controlled by such a code, employing such representatives, sustained by such agencies, animated by such Furies, and producing such fruits of tears and bitterness, it must be open to question.





