Clauses Quote by Frederick Douglass
“Now, take the Constitution according to its plain reading, and I defy the presentation of a single pro-slavery clause in it. On the other hand it will be found to contain principles and purposes, entirely hostile to the existence of slavery.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Address to the Republican Convention, 1860
The Constitution may lack an explicit anti‑slavery clause, but its broader principles fundamentally oppose slavery.
In simple terms: Constitution opposes slavery despite wording.
Key Takeaway
Advocate for interpreting principles over literal text.
Themes
law
slavery
principles
interpretation
justice
Mood
ethical
inspirational
Type
legal
philosophical
When to use this quote
- legal advocacy
- education
- policy reform
Key Concepts
constitutional law
ethics
political philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we apply broader principles to modern issues?
- What role does intent play in legal interpretation?
A Different Perspective
Relying solely on literal reading can miss moral intent.
