I can not but hate the prospect of slavery's expansion. I…
“I can not but hate the prospect of slavery's expansion. I hate it because of the monstrous injustice of slavery itself. I hate it because it deprives our republican example of its just influence in the world-enables the enemies of free institutions, with plausibility, to taunt us as hypocrites-causes the real friends of freedom to doubt our sincerity.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Lincoln condemns slavery's spread as morally corrupt and damaging to America's reputation, urging vigilance against hypocrisy.
In simple terms: Slavery harms moral standing and credibility.
Key Takeaway
Guard democratic values against hypocrisy.
Themes
morality
politics
freedom
Mood
serious
determined
Type
political
historical
When to use this quote
- policy debate
- education
- activism
- public discourse
- international relations
Key Concepts
Republicanism
human rights
hypocrisy
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies confront past injustices?
- What actions reinforce genuine freedom?
A Different Perspective
Slavery's legacy persists, requiring ongoing commitment.