On the record
Because it’s the thing to display distinguished consideration to these fellows, in order to convince them that we’re willing to forget the past, if they’ll only be good enough to do the same.
Said by
Whitelaw Reid
Source
gutenberg.orgWhitelaw Reid: “Because it’s the thing to display distinguished consideration to these fellows, in order to convince them that we’re…”
Editor's note · Context
Reid critiques the practice of showing excessive deference to former Rebels in hopes of reconciliation.
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Our national experience has demonstrated that public order reposes most securely on the broad base of universal suffrage.
And it is both natural and right that colored Americans, entitled to the rights of citizens, should claim their exercise.
It is my firm conviction, that suffrage is not only the best security for freedom, but the most potent agent of amelioration and civilization.
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.