On the record
We attempted to destroy the government and failed; any other would have hung me for my share in the matter; and would have had a perfect right to do it.
Said by
Whitelaw Reid
Source
gutenberg.orgWhitelaw Reid: “We attempted to destroy the government and failed; any other would have hung me for my share in the matter; and would…”
Editor's note · Context
Reid reflects on the consequences of rebellion, acknowledging the mercy he received despite his actions against the government.
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In this way they will surely overcome unjust hostility, and convince even the most prejudiced that the denial to them of any right which citizens may properly exercise is equally unwise and wrong.
He who has that right will usually respect himself more, be more respected, perform more, and more productive work, and do more to increase the wealth and welfare of the community, than he who has it not.
Let me repeat, that I think it best for all men—white men, black men, and brown men, if you make that distinction, that all men of proper age and unconvicted of crime, should have the right of suffrage.
Ordinarily the simple performance of duty is so blessed of God, that men who live in the doing of it, are the best off, in all respects, even in this world.