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Constitution Quote by Andrew Johnson

“I have lived among negroes, all my life, and I am for this Government with slavery under the Constitution as it is. I am for the Government of my fathers with negroes. I am for it without negroes. Before I would see this Government destroyed I would send every negro back to Africa, disintegrated…” quote by Andrew Johnson
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“I have lived among negroes, all my life, and I am for this Government with slavery under the Constitution as it is. I am for the Government of my fathers with negroes. I am for it without negroes. Before I would see this Government destroyed I would send every negro back to Africa, disintegrated and blotted out of space”

Andrew Johnson

About This Quote

Source Speech: Reconstruction Era Address, 1865

He opposes slavery but also wants to remove Black people from the US, reflecting racist views of the time.

In simple terms: He wants a government without Black people.

Key Takeaway

Recognize how prejudice can shape policy.

Themes

racism politics reconstruction

Mood

defiant confrontational

Type

political historical

When to use this quote

  • civil rights legislation
  • education reform
  • community dialogue

Key Concepts

white supremacy civil rights

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does racism affect policy decisions?
  • What are the moral costs of exclusion?
A Different Perspective

His stance ignores the humanity and rights of Black people.

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