Political Quotes

On the record
There was an unjust tax of a few pence, with the chance of amercement by a single judge without jury; but by this statute no person could be deprived of that vital right of all which is to other rights as soul to body,--the right of a man to himself.
Said by
Charles Sumner
Massachusetts

Editor's note · Context

Sumner highlights the vital right of personal autonomy, comparing it to other rights.

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More from Charles Sumner

I am opposed to a tariff for protection merely, and not for revenue."--Letter to John K.

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I am in favor of a tariff for revenue, such a one as will yield a sufficient amount to the treasury to defray the expenses of the government, economically administered.

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The most distant are not without a present influence on our daily lives.

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Nor should we be too impatient to witness the fulfilment of our aspirations.

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