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Slavery was a contentious issue that reached its peak during the 19th century, both economically and controversially. The proslavery forces in the South put forth various arguments to defend their cherished institution. Legal, religious, and economic justifications were all utilized to support slavery, with the political aspects playing a significant role in the defense of this institution.
Legal arguments and defenses were the most frequently used means of support for slavery. The South made extensive efforts to preserve slavery through compromises.
One of the most notable compromises was the Missouri Compromise of 1820, which delineated that any new territory above the 36°30" line would be free, while territories below that line would permit slavery.
This compromise temporarily settled the debate over slavery and served as a method of preserving the institution. Additionally, the argument that slaves were considered property, and individuals had a constitutional right to their property, was another legal defense used to support slavery.
Another significant legal decision in favor of the South was the Dred Scott decision.
This Supreme Court ruling allowed proslavery forces to argue that blacks were not considered people and therefore did not possess constitutional rights, including freedom.
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This interpretation of the constitution by the Supreme Court provided the South with another constitutional advantage in defending slavery.
While legal arguments were crucial, economic considerations also played a vital role in the defense of slavery. The South argued that slave labor was essential for prosperity, as plantations and cash crops heavily relied on the labor of slaves. Without slavery, the success of plantations and cash crops would have been severely hindered due to the lack of manpower.
The economic argument was further supported by the belief that slavery would not expand northward, as the land above the 36°30" line was deemed unsuitable for cash crop production and plantation agriculture.
Plantation owners also contended that slaves were treated better on plantations than free blacks in the North.
They provided slaves with three meals a day, housing, and other benefits, which most free blacks in the North could not afford on their limited incomes. This argument highlighted the economic advantages of slavery for both the plantation owners and the slaves themselves.
Religion also played a significant role in the defense of slavery in the South. Many Southerners used Christianity and the Bible to justify slavery, citing historical references to slavery in biblical times. They argued that slavery was a longstanding institution that was accepted and even embraced in the Bible. Some proslavery advocates went as far as to claim that Jesus himself did not condemn slavery and that converting Africans to Christianity was a way of spreading the word of God.
By introducing Africans to Christianity, they believed they were civilizing them and improving their lives. These religious arguments were used to support the idea that slavery was not only acceptable but also beneficial for the enslaved individuals. Overall, the South presented a robust case in defense of their ideals by incorporating legal, economic, and religious aspects into their arguments.
In conclusion, the defense of slavery in the 19th century was multifaceted, with legal, economic, and religious arguments all playing a role in justifying the institution. The South's ability to intertwine these various aspects into a cohesive defense showcased the complexity of the issue and the lengths to which they would go to preserve their way of life.
The Multifaceted Defense of Slavery in the 19th Century. (2016, Jun 28). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/pro-slavery-arguments-essay
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