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A Letter to the Hon. Samuel A. Eliot, Representative in Congress From the City of Boston, In Reply to His Apology For Voting For the Fugitive Slave Bill.   By: (1793-1857)

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"A Letter to the Hon. Samuel A. Eliot, Representative in Congress From the City of Boston, In Reply to His Apology For Voting For the Fugitive Slave Bill" by Franklin Dexter focuses on a crucial historical turning point - the passage of the Fugitive Slave Bill - and offers a well-reasoned and passionate response to Representative Eliot's defense of his decision to vote in favor of it.

In this eloquent and thought-provoking letter, Dexter meticulously dissects Eliot's arguments, carefully exposing the flaws in his reasoning while highlighting the moral imperative of opposing the Fugitive Slave Bill. Dexter's writing is powerful, persuasive, and infused with a deep sense of indignation, fueling his call for justice and equality.

One of the book's notable strengths lies in Dexter's ability to construct a logical and compelling counterargument. Employing reason and historical evidence, he systematically dismantles Eliot's justifications for supporting the bill. By doing so, Dexter excels at making a case against the legislation that not only appeals to the intellect but also tugs at the readers' emotions.

Additionally, Dexter's extensive knowledge of the historical context shines through in this work. He weaves together narratives of oppressed individuals, supporting them with factual evidence, and vividly portraying the inhumanity of the institution of slavery. This skillful combination of fact and emotion creates a poignant and compelling appeal to both reason and compassion.

However, it must be acknowledged that Dexter's letter is not without its limitations. The book predominantly focuses on meticulously addressing Eliot's arguments, which occasionally detracts from the broader contextual analysis of the Fugitive Slave Bill's impact on society. While this narrow focus effectively deconstructs Eliot's apology, it often sidelines a more comprehensive examination of the bill itself.

Nevertheless, Dexter's letter is an essential contribution to the abolitionist movement's discourse during a pivotal moment in American history. It serves as a relevant testimony of the ongoing struggle against injustice, compelling readers to question their own values and acts as a persuasive call to action for those who believe in the inherent equality of all individuals.

In summary, "A Letter to the Hon. Samuel A. Eliot, Representative in Congress From the City of Boston, In Reply to His Apology For Voting For the Fugitive Slave Bill" by Franklin Dexter is a compelling and thought-provoking read. Dexter's skillful deconstruction of his opponent's arguments, combined with his passionate appeals for justice, make this book an insightful and important addition to the discourse of slavery and American history.

First Page:

A LETTER TO

THE HON. SAMUEL A. ELIOT,

REPRESENTATIVE IN CONGRESS FROM THE CITY OF BOSTON,

in reply to his

APOLOGY FOR VOTING FOR THE FUGITIVE SLAVE BILL.

BY HANCOCK

BOSTON: WM. CROSBY & H. P. NICHOLS, 111 WASHINGTON STREET. 1851.

CAMBRIDGE:

METCALF AND COMPANY,

PRINTERS TO THE UNIVERSITY.

A LETTER, &c.

SIR;

An English courtier procured a colonial judgeship for a young dependant wholly ignorant of law. The new functionary, on parting with his patron, received from him the following sage advice, "Be careful never to assign reasons, for whether your judgments be right or wrong, your reasons will certainly be bad." You have cause to regret that some friend had not been equally provident of your reputation, and intimated that it was only expected of you to vote for Mr. Webster's measures, but by no means to assist him in vindicating them. You did, indeed, vote precisely as those who procured your nomination intended you should; yet, on your return home, you found your name had become a byword and a reproach in your native State. Another election approached, but you declined submitting your recent course to the judgment of the electors, and withdrew from the canvass. But although the people were thus prevented from voting against you, they persisted in speaking and writing against you... Continue reading book >>




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