But this momentous question [the Missouri Compromise], like a firebell in the night awakened and filled me with terror. I considered it the knell of the Union.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Jefferson viewed the Missouri Compromise as a terrifying threat that signaled the potential end of the Union.
- In plain terms
- The Missouri Compromise terrified Jefferson and he thought it would break the country.
- What can you take from it?
- Political compromises can threaten national unity.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When does compromise threaten unity?
- How do you react to political crisis?
Another view
Some argue compromises are necessary to prevent immediate conflict.
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