On the record
What especially denominates it a Republic is its dependence on the public or people at large, without any hereditary powers.
Source
gutenberg.orgEditor's note · Context
Sumner defines a Republic by its reliance on the will of the people rather than hereditary rule.
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More from Charles Sumner
Men are erring and mortal; principles are steadfast and immortal.
Endeavor, for a moment, by comparison with other interests, to grapple with this sum.
They belong to a system so essentially irrational, that all the admitted virtues of many of its agents cannot save it from judgment.
Above all, welcome to the united regenerated Democracy of the North, which spurns the mockery of a Republic, with professions of Freedom on the lips, while the chains of Slavery clank in the Capitol!
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