Charles Sumner: “But for a long time the merchant was of a despised caste, only next…”

On the record

But for a long time the merchant was of a despised caste, only next above the slave who was sold as a chattel.

Said by

Massachusetts

Source

Sumner reflects on the historical low status of merchants in society, comparing them to slaves.

More from Charles Sumner

Contrary to Christianity, but upheld by the Church, I. 54, 58.

Sovereignty of, belongs to the people, XVI. 28.

Slave Power, necessity of political action against the, II. 207.

Early testimony of the Church against, I. 59.

Other voices in this conversation

Charles Sumner: “But for a long time the merchant was of a despised caste, only next above the slave who was sold as a chattel.”