Famous quote by William H. Seward

"I mean to say that Congress can hereafter decide whether any states, slave or free, can be framed out of Texas. If they should never be framed out of Texas, they never could be admitted"

About this Quote

William H. Seward's quote addresses the issue of statehood and the future of slavery in relation to the area of Texas, showing the tense political environment of the United States leading up to the Civil War. To analyze this declaration, we need to think about the historical context in which it was made.

Firstly, Seward's reference to "hereafter" suggests that Congress held the power to make future decisions about forming new states from the expansive location of Texas. The concept of producing new states was a fiercely objected to concern throughout this period, mostly because the balance of power in between totally free and servant states was at stake. By acknowledging Congress's definitive role, Seward highlights the importance of legislative action in identifying the nation's growth and the future of slavery.

The mention of states "slave or free" underscores the main political dispute of that age: whether new states admitted to the Union would permit slavery. This problem was part of the more comprehensive sectional conflict between the North and the South. Seward's language indicates the requirement of Congress's careful consideration in keeping a balance; if a lot of servant states were admitted, it could tilt nationwide policies in favor of slavery, and vice versa free of charge states.

Seward's statement, "If they ought to never be framed out of Texas, they never might be admitted", presents a theoretical scenario where no brand-new states are ever formed from the territory. This highlights his point that without Congress's effort, the status quo would remain, possibly limiting the spread of slave or free states. It also suggests that the simple existence of Texas as a single entity keeps the issue in tension until legal action is taken.

In summary, Seward is articulating the crucial function of Congress in forming the nation's growth through the development of new states from Texas-- each potentially altering the balance of power concerning slavery. His declaration acts as a reminder of the legal branch's impact over critical nationwide problems and the importance of purposeful governance in determining the nation's future course.

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USA Flag This quote is from William H. Seward between May 16, 1801 and October 10, 1872. He/she was a famous Politician from USA. The author also have 20 other quotes.
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