Civil war Quote by Frederick Douglass
![“We are sometimes asked in the name of patriotism to forget the merits of this fearful struggle [the Civil War], and to remember with equal admiration those who struck at the nation’s life, and those who struck to save it—those who fought for slavery, and those who fought for liberty and justice. I…” quote by Frederick Douglass](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/886/frederick-douglass-859_civil-war_we-are-sometimes-asked-in-the-name-of-pa_1761326.jpg)
““We are sometimes asked in the name of patriotism to forget the merits of this fearful struggle [the Civil War], and to remember with equal admiration those who struck at the nation’s life, and those who struck to save it—those who fought for slavery, and those who fought for liberty and justice. I am no minister of malice. I would not strike the fallen. I would not repel the repentant, but may my right hand forget its cunning, and my tongue cleave to the roof of my mouth, if I forget the difference between the parties to that terrible, protracted and bloody conflict.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Address to the Massachusetts State Legislature, 1865
He urges remembering both sides of the Civil War, condemning hatred, and emphasizing moral clarity between opposing factions.
In simple terms: Remember both sides, avoid hatred, keep moral clarity.
Key Takeaway
Distinguish right from wrong, reject vengeance.
Themes
history
morality
conflict
reconciliation
Mood
reflective
somber
thoughtful
Type
historical
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- public speaking
- education
- commemoration
- peacebuilding
Key Concepts
civil war
justice
patriotism
forgiveness
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we balance remembering pain with fostering unity?
- What lessons from the past guide present moral judgments?
A Different Perspective
May overlook complexities of individual motivations and broader systemic issues.
![“[Wars] can come in different shapes and guises, but always wars come in increments. I am convinced there are steps, and that once these events are set in motion, they are virtually impossible to reverse. There were other steps in the country's stumble toward war, and I remember these days clearly…” quote by Dave Eggers](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/6c5/dave-eggers-638_war_wars-can-come-in-different-shapes-and-gu_2088515.jpg)
