Political Quotes

On the record
As the feudal chief allocated to himself and his followers that soil which was the prize of his strong arm, so now the merchant, with grasp more subtle and reaching, allocates to himself and his followers, ranging through multitudinous degrees of dependence, all the spoils of every land, triumphantly won by trade.
Said by
Charles Sumner
Massachusetts

Editor's note · Context

Sumner compares the merchant's role in society to that of a feudal chief, highlighting their influence and control.

Share

More from Charles Sumner

Let us at all hazards prevent the extension of Slavery and the increase of the Slave Power.

gutenberg.org

At Baltimore the delegation of the most important State in the Union, known to be in favor of the Wilmot Proviso, was refused admission to the Convention.

gutenberg.org

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.

gutenberg.org

Controlled by such a code, employing such representatives, sustained by such agencies, animated by such Furies, and producing such fruits of tears and bitterness, it must be open to question.

gutenberg.org

Other voices in this conversation