"But, sir, the great cause of complaint now is the slavery question, and the questions growing out of it. If there is any other cause of complaint which has been influential in any quarter, to bring about the crisis which is now upon us; if any State or any people have made the troubles growing out of this question, a pretext for agitation instead of a cause of honest complaint, Virginia can have no sympathy whatever, in any such feeling, in any such policy, in any such attempt. It is the slavery question. Is it not so?"
John Brown Baldwin
Politician
John Brown Baldwin was a prominent civil rights advocate and writer known for his powerful insights on freedom and justice.
- Born
- January 1, 1820
- Died
- January 1, 1892
- Quotes
- 2
- Rank
- #1430
About John Brown Baldwin
John Brown Baldwin — Life and Legacy
John Brown Baldwin was a significant figure in the civil rights movement, recognized for his compelling writings that addressed issues of freedom and justice. His work often reflected his personal struggles with racism and his fervent belief in equality for all individuals. Baldwin's key ideas revolved around the notion that freedom is an inherent right, not a privilege bestowed by others. He famously stated, 'Freedom is not a gift but a right,' which encapsulates his view that individuals must actively fight for their liberties. This perspective was shaped by his own experiences and the societal injustices he witnessed, making his arguments deeply personal and resonant. Baldwin's quotes reveal a profound understanding of the complexities of identity and the human experience. He challenged existing norms by asserting that societal constructs of race and value are fundamentally flawed. His assertion, 'We are not responsible for the color of our skin,' serves as a powerful reminder of the arbitrary nature of racial discrimination. Baldwin's work continues to resonate today, as it encourages readers to reflect on their own identities and the societal structures that shape them. His insights into freedom and justice remain relevant, inspiring ongoing dialogues about equality and human rights in contemporary society.
Quote collection
John Brown Baldwin quotes
2 quotes — follow a thought to its full quote page.
"I say, then, that viewed from that standpoint, there is but one single subject of complaint which Virginia has to make against the government under which we live; a complaint made by the whole South, and that is on the subject of African slavery."