Charles Sumner Quotes

A collection of quotes by Charles Sumner.

Charles Sumner was an American politician and statesman born on January 6, 1811, in Boston, Massachusetts. With a deeply rooted commitment to abolitionism and social justice, Sumner had a significant impact on American politics during the mid-19th century. He studied at Harvard College and later became a prominent lawyer.

Sumner first gained public attention in the early 1850s as a leading spokesperson against the expansion of slavery. As a United States Senator from Massachusetts, he vehemently argued against the institution of slavery and proposed extensive civil rights legislation.

One of Sumner's most notable moments came in 1856 when he delivered a passionate speech on the Senate floor titled "The Crime Against Kansas." In this speech, he denounced the Kansas-Nebraska Act and personally attacked his pro-slavery colleagues, including Senator Andrew Butler of South Carolina. The speech, considered incendiary by Southerners, led to a brutal physical assault by Congressman Preston Brooks of South Carolina on Sumner in the Senate chamber, further highlighting the fierce tensions that plagued the nation over slavery.

Charles Sumner continued to be a staunch advocate for civil rights, equal suffrage, and educational opportunities for African Americans throughout his political career. He played a significant role in shaping the Republican Party's platform and was instrumental in the passage of the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments to the United States Constitution. Sumner died on March 11, 1874, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering commitment to the principles of equality and justice.