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Bulls Quote by W. E. B. Du Bois

“Negroes could be sold - actually sold as we sell cattle, with no reference to calves or bulls or recognition of family. It was a nasty business. The white South was properly ashamed of it and continually belittled and almost denied it. But it was a stark and bitter fact.” quote by W. E. B. Du Bois
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“Negroes could be sold - actually sold as we sell cattle, with no reference to calves or bulls or recognition of family. It was a nasty business. The white South was properly ashamed of it and continually belittled and almost denied it. But it was a stark and bitter fact.”

W. E. B. Du Bois

About This Quote

Source Speech: Address on Race Relations, 1915

The slave trade reduced people to commodities, stripping them of humanity and family ties, reflecting deep moral failure.

In simple terms: People were treated like livestock, losing identity and family.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and confront dehumanizing histories.

Themes

human rights justice history racism

Mood

somber reflective

Type

historical activist

When to use this quote

  • education curricula
  • museum exhibits
  • community dialogues
  • policy reform

Key Concepts

human commodification moral shame

Questions to Reflect On

  • What responsibilities do we have to remember such atrocities?
  • How can we honor the families lost?
A Different Perspective

Historical narratives can be contested or minimized.

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