Load Quote by Gerrit Smith
“The poor North has much to do with slavery. It staggers under its load and smarts under its lash.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Abolitionist Lecture, United States, 1840s
The North's economy and society are heavily burdened by the moral and material costs of slavery.
In simple terms: Slavery weighs down the North.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and address the hidden costs of injustice.
Themes
justice
economics
morality
history
Mood
somber
reflective
Type
historical
political.
When to use this quote
- policy reform
- education
- public awareness
- activism
Key Concepts
systemic oppression
economic burden
social conscience
Questions to Reflect On
- How does economic self‑interest influence moral decisions?
- What steps can societies take to uncover hidden injustices?
A Different Perspective
The quote may overlook regional variations and the agency of Northern abolitionists.
![“Just between you and me, shouldn’t the World Bank be encouraging MORE migration of the dirty industries to the LDCs [Less Developed Countries]?... I think the economic logic behind dumping a load of toxic waste in the lowest wage country is impeccable and we should face up to that... I’ve always…” quote by Lawrence Summers](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ac4/lawrence-summers-16940_air_just-between-you-and-me-shouldn-t-the-wo_4703.jpg)
