Speech of Mr. Cushing, of Massachusetts, on the Right of Petition By: Caleb Cushing (1800-1879)
In "Speech of Mr. Cushing, of Massachusetts, on the Right of Petition" by Caleb Cushing, readers are presented with a compelling argument for the preservation and protection of the right to petition. Cushing, a prominent political figure from Massachusetts, eloquently articulates the importance of this democratic right and its role in fostering a just society. The book begins by delving into the historical context surrounding the right of petition, tracing it back to the origins of the United States and its Constitution. Cushing examines the Founding Fathers' intentions in safeguarding this essential right, emphasizing its significance as a means for citizens to express their concerns and grievances to the government. Throughout the text, Cushing skillfully supports his argument with logical reasoning and persuasive rhetoric. He highlights various cases in which the right of petition has been infringed upon or misinterpreted, drawing attention to the potential dangers of disregarding this fundamental pillar of democracy. One of the strengths of Cushing's book lies in his ability to expound upon complex legal concepts in a manner that is accessible to readers of all backgrounds. His lucid explanations and insightful analysis make it easy for readers to grasp the intricacies of the law as it pertains to the right of petition. Moreover, Cushing's prose is imbued with passion, making the book a powerful call to action for readers who may have taken their democratic rights for granted. He weaves personal anecdotes and historical anecdotes together, creating a tapestry that vividly portrays the profound impact the right of petition has had on the nation's history. However, despite its strengths, the book does have a tendency to become overly repetitive at times. Cushing reiterates his main arguments extensively, which may lead some readers to feel that the book could have been more concise. In conclusion, "Speech of Mr. Cushing, of Massachusetts, on the Right of Petition" is an enlightening and thought-provoking read. Through his meticulous analysis and impassioned rhetoric, Caleb Cushing successfully conveys the importance of the right to petition and its indispensable role in maintaining a vibrant democracy. This book will undoubtedly appeal to those interested in constitutional law, political science, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the democratic principles that underpin society. First Page: SPEECH OF MR. CUSHING, OF MASSACHUSETTS, ON THE RIGHT OF PETITION, AS CONNECTED WITH PETITIONS FOR THE ABOLITION OF SLAVERY AND THE SLAVE TRADE IN THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA: IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, JANUARY 25, 1836. WASHINGTON: PRINTED BY GALES AND BEATON, 1836. SPEECH. Mr. Cushing said: I hold in my hand several Petitions on the subject of the slave interest in the District of Columbia. One of them, I now present to the House. Upon it, I make the preliminary motion, understood to be necessary in such cases, that it be received; and, in reference to this question, I have some few remarks to submit to the consideration of the House. This Petition prays for the abolition of slavery, and the slave trade, in this District. It is respectful in its terms, being free from the offensive expressions and reflections contained in some of the Petitions on the same subject, heretofore presented; it is signed by inhabitants of Haverhill, in the State of Massachusetts; and among the subscribers are the names of citizens of that State whom I personally know, whom I avouch to be highly respectable, and who, whether mistaken or not in their views, are assuredly actuated by conscientious motives of civil and religious principle. They are constituents of mine; they have transmitted to me the Petition, desiring me, as their Representative, to present it; and, under these circumstances, much as I have deprecated such a commission, and reluctant as I am to be instrumental in the introduction of any matter of excitement upon this floor, I cannot permit myself to hesitate in the discharge of this painful duty, believing, as I do, that it is the constitutional right of every American, be he high or be he low; be he fanatic or be he philosopher, to come here with his grievances, and to be heard upon his petition by this House... Continue reading book >>

Speech of Mr. Cushing, of Massachusetts, on the Right of Petition By: Caleb Cushing (1800-1879)

In "Speech of Mr. Cushing, of Massachusetts, on the Right of Petition" by Caleb Cushing, readers are presented with a compelling argument for the preservation and protection of the right to petition. Cushing, a prominent political figure from Massachusetts, eloquently articulates the importance of this democratic right and its role in fostering a just society.

The book begins by delving into the historical context surrounding the right of petition, tracing it back to the origins of the United States and its Constitution. Cushing examines the Founding Fathers' intentions in safeguarding this essential right, emphasizing its significance as a means for citizens to express their concerns and grievances to the government.

Throughout the text, Cushing skillfully supports his argument with logical reasoning and persuasive rhetoric. He highlights various cases in which the right of petition has been infringed upon or misinterpreted, drawing attention to the potential dangers of disregarding this fundamental pillar of democracy.

One of the strengths of Cushing's book lies in his ability to expound upon complex legal concepts in a manner that is accessible to readers of all backgrounds. His lucid explanations and insightful analysis make it easy for readers to grasp the intricacies of the law as it pertains to the right of petition.

Moreover, Cushing's prose is imbued with passion, making the book a powerful call to action for readers who may have taken their democratic rights for granted. He weaves personal anecdotes and historical anecdotes together, creating a tapestry that vividly portrays the profound impact the right of petition has had on the nation's history.

However, despite its strengths, the book does have a tendency to become overly repetitive at times. Cushing reiterates his main arguments extensively, which may lead some readers to feel that the book could have been more concise.

In conclusion, "Speech of Mr. Cushing, of Massachusetts, on the Right of Petition" is an enlightening and thought-provoking read. Through his meticulous analysis and impassioned rhetoric, Caleb Cushing successfully conveys the importance of the right to petition and its indispensable role in maintaining a vibrant democracy. This book will undoubtedly appeal to those interested in constitutional law, political science, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the democratic principles that underpin society.

First Page:

SPEECH OF MR. CUSHING, OF MASSACHUSETTS,

ON THE

RIGHT OF PETITION,

AS CONNECTED WITH PETITIONS FOR THE

ABOLITION OF SLAVERY AND THE SLAVE TRADE

IN THE

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA:

IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, JANUARY 25, 1836.

WASHINGTON: PRINTED BY GALES AND BEATON, 1836.

SPEECH.

Mr. Cushing said: I hold in my hand several Petitions on the subject of the slave interest in the District of Columbia. One of them, I now present to the House. Upon it, I make the preliminary motion, understood to be necessary in such cases, that it be received; and, in reference to this question, I have some few remarks to submit to the consideration of the House.

This Petition prays for the abolition of slavery, and the slave trade, in this District. It is respectful in its terms, being free from the offensive expressions and reflections contained in some of the Petitions on the same subject, heretofore presented; it is signed by inhabitants of Haverhill, in the State of Massachusetts; and among the subscribers are the names of citizens of that State whom I personally know, whom I avouch to be highly respectable, and who, whether mistaken or not in their views, are assuredly actuated by conscientious motives of civil and religious principle. They are constituents of mine; they have transmitted to me the Petition, desiring me, as their Representative, to present it; and, under these circumstances, much as I have deprecated such a commission, and reluctant as I am to be instrumental in the introduction of any matter of excitement upon this floor, I cannot permit myself to hesitate in the discharge of this painful duty, believing, as I do, that it is the constitutional right of every American, be he high or be he low; be he fanatic or be he philosopher, to come here with his grievances, and to be heard upon his petition by this House... Continue reading book >>

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