On the record
Such a prayer, signed by Franklin as President of an Abolition Society, not only shows the spirit of the times, but fixes forever the true policy of the Republic.
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gutenberg.orgEditor's note · Context
Sumner highlights a petition from Benjamin Franklin that exemplifies the abolitionist spirit of the time and the Republic's policy.
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More from Charles Sumner
It is clear that the only question of present practical interest arises from the usurpations of the Slave Power and the efforts to extend Slavery.
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.
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.
As the Brotherhood of Man is practically recognized, it becomes impossible to restrict the feeling within any exclusive circle of country, and to set up an unchristian distinction of honor between civil war and international war.
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