Political Quotes

James Blaine: “Every avenue for improvement was closed against him; and in a State which boasted somewhat indelicately of its chivalric…”

On the record
Every avenue for improvement was closed against him; and in a State which boasted somewhat indelicately of its chivalric dignity, the negro was mercilessly excluded from all chances to better his condition individually, or to improve the character of his race.
Said by
James Blaine
Republican · Maine

Editor's note · Context

Blaine laments the total lack of opportunities for African Americans to improve their circumstances, reflecting systemic barriers.

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