For, by the logic of Concord, Lexington, and Bunker Hill, and by the principles enforced by this nation in its boasted Declaration of Independence, Capt. Brown was a hero, struggling against fearful odds, not for his own advantage, but to redeem others from a horrible bondage, to be justified in all that he aimed to achieve, however lacking in sound discretion. And by the same logic and the same principles, every slave-holder has forfeited his right to live, if his destruction be necessary to enable his victims to break the yoke of bondage; and they, and all who are disposed to aid them by force and arms, are fully warranted in carrying rebellion to any extent, and securing freedom at whatever cost.
More from William Lloyd Garrison
I am aware that many object to the severity of my language; but is there not cause for severity? I will be as harsh as truth, and as uncompromising as justice.…
Permalink to quote #9 Better to be always in a minority of one with God - branded as madman, incendiary, fanatic, heretic, infidel - frowned upon by 'the powers that be,' and mobbed…
Permalink to quote #11 Let Southern oppressors tremble - let their secret abettors tremble - let their Northern apologists tremble - let all the enemies of the persecuted blacks trem…
Permalink to quote #8