The Federal Government was never, in its essence, anything but an anti-slavery government.

Heaven's blessing must attend all, and freedom must soon be given to the pining millions under a ruthless bondage.

What I ask for the Negro is not benevolence, not pity, not sympathy, but simply justice. ... All I ask is, give him a chance to stand on his own legs! Let him alone! ... Your interference is doing him positive injury.

If we would reach a degree of civilization higher and grander than any yet attained, we should welcome to our ample continent all the nations, kindreds, tongues and peoples, and as fast as they learn our language and comprehend the duties of citizenship, we should incorporate them into the American body politic. The outspread wings of the American eagle are broad enough to shelter all who are likely to come.

The law on the side of freedom is of great advantage only when there is power to make that law respected.

People might not get all they work for in this world, but they must certainly work for all they get.

A man without force, is without the essential dignity of humanity. Human nature is so constituted, that it cannot honor a helpless man, although it can pity him.