“Slavery: From Declaration to Civil War” Introduction: Slavery is a topic that has been one of the most shocking yet natural around the world. Slavery is defined as “Coerced Labor” and “The most important form of labor in New World”. (Roark 72) This idea and action provokes mixed feelings in the heart and minds of everybody and still people allowed it. The overwhelming feeling of wrong that slavery gave moved people into wanting change. Thesis Statement: The neglecting and contradicting idea of slavery eventually lead to men with very different strong ideas which eventually lead to the civil war. The issue of slavery can date back all the way to before the New World. In the time during which America was fighting to become a free country, …show more content…
Calhoun of South Carolina is one of the biggest proslavery politicians in the country. In 1837, John C Calhoun made a speech called “The Positive Good of Slavery”. The purpose of this document was to address the senate about the antislavery petitions that had been sent by abolitionist groups. Argument: Calhoun addresses the senate through the form of a speech. He begins the speech by reading two petitions he had received. Presuppositions: Calhoun fails to see the harm that is caused to slaves. Calhoun seems to be so wrapped up in himself and holding his place in office that he gives into the idea of slavery and defending it. He knows that if he defends slavery he will remain in office and continue to be re-elected by South Carolina as senator and in 1825 Vice President (Senate Historical Office, VP John Calhoun). Epistemology: The speech is known to be truth by what has been discussed in class. Throughout class we have talked about Calhoun and his support in slavery due to his place in politics so a speech such as this one isn’t uncommon. Relate: Unlike Jefferson or Garrison, Calhoun was for slavery by all means. This speech shows his support politically on slavery that is much different then the other authors. What seems to be different from other supporters of slavery is he has political motive its not as much he wants to keep his slaves rather than his job he has in office. Garrison and Jefferson on the other hand had that feeling discussed at the beginning of the paper that is slavery is