Business Quote by Howard Zinn
““The Constitution was a compromise between slaveholding interests of the South and moneyed interests of the North. For the purpose of uniting the thirteen states into one great market for commerce, the northern delegates wanted laws regulating interstate commerce, and urged that such laws require only a majority of Congress to pass. The South agreed to this, in return for allowing the trade in slaves to continue for twenty years before being outlawed.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Lecture on American History, 1990s
The Constitution balanced Southern slaveholding and Northern commercial interests, granting Congress limited power over interstate commerce while preserving slavery temporarily.
In simple terms: A political trade‑off protected slavery for economic unity.
Key Takeaway
Recognize how compromises can embed injustice.
Themes
politics
history
compromise
slavery
economics
Mood
reflective
critical
serious
Type
historical
analytical
When to use this quote
- policy drafting
- constitutional law education
- civil rights activism
Key Concepts
Federalism
regional interests
political negotiation
Questions to Reflect On
- How do modern policies reflect historic compromises?
- What lessons can be drawn for future reforms?
A Different Perspective
Compromises may prioritize short‑term unity over human rights.
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