On the record
The right of petition, a great popular right, cannot be interrupted without a blow at the Constitution.
Source
gutenberg.orgEditor's note · Context
Sumner defends the right of petition as a fundamental constitutional right that must be protected.
Share
More from Charles Sumner
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!
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.
It applies an arrogant and unrelenting ostracism to all who express themselves against Slavery.
Men are erring and mortal; principles are steadfast and immortal.
Other voices in this conversation
