The Union was formed by the voluntary agreement of the…
“The Union was formed by the voluntary agreement of the States; and these, in uniting together, have not forfeited their Nationality, nor have they been reduced to the condition of one and the same people. If one of the States chose to withdraw its name from the contract, it would be difficult to disprove its right of doing so ...”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
States voluntarily unite, retaining identity, and can withdraw if desired.
In simple terms: Union is a voluntary agreement of states.
Respect sovereign choice.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- state secession debates
- intergovernmental negotiations
- constitutional law
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What conditions justify a state's exit?
- How does unity survive dissent?
Withdrawal may destabilize the union.