Political Quotes

On the record
Here, again, nothing is said of aristocracy or oligarchy, which coexist with an elective chief magistrate,--as in Venice, where the elected Doge was surrounded by an oligarchy of nobles, and in Holland, where the elected Stadtholder was a prince surrounded by princes.
Said by
Charles Sumner
Massachusetts

Editor's note · Context

Sumner points out that having an elected leader does not necessarily equate to a republican form of government, using historical examples.

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It is a cause which, though long kept in check throughout our country, as also in Europe, now confronts the people and their rulers, demanding to be heard.

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Far above any flickering light or battle-lantern of party is the everlasting sun of Truth, in whose beams are the duties of men.

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They are but leaders of the two contending factions into which the Slave Power is divided.

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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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