On the record
It is easy to see that empire obtained by force is unrepublican, and offensive to the first principle of our Union, according to which all just government stands only on the consent of the governed.
Source
gutenberg.orgEditor's note · Context
Sumner critiques the use of force in acquiring territory, emphasizing the importance of consent in governance.
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In this contest, we may borrow from the ancient Greek, who, when his hands were cut off, fought with his stumps, and even with his teeth.
The subterfuges of the politician cannot escape it.
Rather would I arouse you to renewed and incessant exertion.
Their existence is a disgrace to civilization; for it implies the common consent of nations to the Arbitrament of War, as regulated by these laws.
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