Andrew Quote by Eustace Mullins
“A hastily written "Civil Rights Act" was rushed through Congress. President Andrew Johnson immediately vetoed it, noting that the right to confer citizenship rested with the several states, and that "the tendency of the bill is to resuscitate the spirit of rebellion".”
About This Quote
Source Historical Commentary: "Civil Rights Act Veto", 1866
President Johnson vetoed a rushed civil rights bill, claiming states should decide citizenship and fearing rebellion.
In simple terms: Johnson opposed federal civil rights legislation.
Recognize political resistance to change.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- legislative review
- civil rights education
- policy debate
- historical analysis
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Why did Johnson view the bill as rebellious?
- How did state vs federal authority shape civil rights?
The bill aimed to protect rights; opposition reflected power struggles.