When the decision was finally made to accept blacks as full citizens, the founders' principles provided the theoretical foundation. Lincoln's revival of the declaration in the 1850s had prepared the way. In principle, people of all races can become citizens of a nation based on the idea that "all men are created equal".

— Thomas G. West Vindicating the Founders (2001)

Share this quote

Post on X Facebook Download image Copy quote Copy link

Another quote →