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All good men wish the entire abolition of slavery, as soon…

“All good men wish the entire abolition of slavery, as soon as it can take place with safety to the public, and for the lasting good of the present wretched race of slaves. The only possible step that could be taken towards it by the convention was to fix a period after which they should not be…” quote by Oliver Ellsworth
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“All good men wish the entire abolition of slavery, as soon as it can take place with safety to the public, and for the lasting good of the present wretched race of slaves. The only possible step that could be taken towards it by the convention was to fix a period after which they should not be imported.”

Oliver Ellsworth

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Advocates for immediate abolition of slavery but stresses safety and public order, proposing a future cutoff for importation as a pragmatic step.

In simple terms: Calls for ending slavery quickly but safely, suggesting a future ban on importation.

Key Takeaway

Abolish slavery promptly while ensuring public safety.

Themes

human rights slavery politics

Mood

serious historical

Type

political ethical

When to use this quote

  • policy reform
  • civil rights advocacy
  • historical analysis
  • legal frameworks

Key Concepts

gradual emancipation public safety legislative strategy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What are the risks of rapid social change?
  • How can safety be ensured during emancipation?
A Different Perspective

Immediate abolition may cause unrest without proper transition plans.

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