Slavery Quotes

Whether we will or not, the question of Slavery is THE question, the all absorbing topic of the day.

Our best and greatest men have greatly underestimated the size of this [slavery] question. They have constantly brought forward small cures for great sores - plasters too small to cover the wound.

Let there be no compromise on the question of extending slavery. If there be, all our labor is lost, and, ere long, must be done again.

You know I think the fugitive slave clause of the constitution ought to be enforced - to put it on the mildest form, ought not to be resisted.

Prevent ... our friends from demoralizing themselves, and our cause, by entertaining propositions for compromise of any sort, on 'slavery extention.' ... On that point hold firm, as with a chain of steel.

I am sorry any republican inclines to dally with Pop. Sov. [popular sovereignty] of any sort. It acknowledges that slavery has equal rights with liberty, and surrenders all we have contended for.

You think slavery is right and ought to be extended; while we think it is wrong and ought to be restricted. That I suppose is the rub. It certainly is the only substantial difference between us.

In giving freedom to the slave, we assure freedom to the free.

We must become free. We are free; the work is to know it. We must give up all slavery, all bondage of whatever kind. We must not only give up our bondage to earth and everything and everybody on earth, but also to all ideas of heaven and happiness.