Political Quotes

Charles Sumner: “Here are men from the ancient Democracy, believing that any democracy must be a name only, no better than sounding brass…”

On the record
Here are men from the ancient Democracy, believing that any democracy must be a name only, no better than sounding brass or a tinkling cymbal, which does not recognize on every occasion the supremacy of Human Rights, and is not ready to do and to suffer in their behalf.
Said by
Charles Sumner
Massachusetts

Editor's note · Context

Sumner critiques the inadequacies of a democracy that fails to prioritize human rights, emphasizing their fundamental importance.

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Consent of the governed necessary in forming new governments of, XII. 298.

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His loyalty to the Declaration of Independence, XIX. 317.

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

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