Lewis Tappan was a prominent American abolitionist, businessman, and social reformer during the 19th century. He was a key figure in the abolition movement, particularly known for his support of the Amistad case, where a group of enslaved Africans fought for their freedom after seizing control of a slave ship. Tappan also helped establish the American Anti-Slavery Society and supported efforts to improve education for African Americans. Below are some of his most notable quotes:
- “I am for the immediate and total abolition of slavery.”
- This succinct quote reflects Tappan’s steadfast commitment to the abolition of slavery. He was one of the many who called for the immediate emancipation of enslaved people without compromise.
- “The time is come for the overthrow of the system of slavery in the United States.”
- Here, Tappan expresses his belief that slavery was no longer tenable and that it was time for a radical change. This quote emphasizes his sense of urgency and moral conviction in the abolitionist cause.
- “We must work for the cause of the slave with a steady and unflinching determination.”
- Tappan stresses the importance of perseverance in the fight for abolition. His call for steady, unwavering dedication to the cause reflects his own long-term commitment to ending slavery.
- “It is a sin to be silent when it is your duty to protest.”
- Tappan was a strong advocate for speaking out against injustice, particularly slavery. He believed that remaining silent in the face of moral wrongs was itself a form of complicity, and that it was everyone’s duty to take action.
- “There is no peace for the oppressed, there is no justice for the enslaved, and there can be no liberty for a nation that tolerates slavery.”
- This quote emphasizes Tappan’s belief that the existence of slavery undermined the values of liberty and justice in America. He felt that a nation could not claim to be just while allowing such an oppressive institution to persist.
- “Abolition is not a local but a national question; it is not a political but a moral question.”
- Tappan underscores the idea that slavery was not just a regional issue, but a moral issue that affected the entire country. He viewed the fight for abolition as one that transcended political boundaries and required a moral awakening.
- “The destiny of the enslaved is in the hands of the people of the North.”
- Tappan called on the people of the Northern states to take action against slavery. He saw them as having a critical role in ending the institution, as the North had the political power and moral responsibility to act.
- “I would have every man, woman, and child in the country know the evil of slavery and the wrong of it.”
- This quote highlights Tappan’s desire to raise awareness about the horrors of slavery. He worked tirelessly to educate the public on the moral and social wrongs of the institution in order to galvanize action.
- “I stand for the rights of every man, irrespective of color, and I will work until every man is free.”
- Tappan’s abolitionist work was rooted in the belief that all individuals, regardless of their race, should enjoy equal rights. He was deeply committed to ensuring that freedom was a universal right for every person.
Lewis Tappan’s advocacy for the abolition of slavery, his efforts to elevate the status of African Americans, and his work with legal and educational reforms made him a pivotal figure in the fight for justice and equality. His actions, particularly in supporting the Amistad case and in establishing various abolitionist organizations, contributed significantly to the cause of emancipation in the United States