Defense of the National Democracy Against the Attack of Judge Douglas: Constitutional Rights of the States

This congressional record contains the speech delivered by Judah P. Benjamin, Senator from Louisiana, in the United States Senate on May 22, 1860. Benjamin's speech directly responds to Stephen A. Douglas's arguments on popular sovereignty and vehemently opposes any limitations on slavery in new states and territories. He cites the Dred Scott Supreme Court decision to support his position. This document is a key artifact of the escalating tensions leading to the Civil War, reflecting the deep divisions within the Democratic Party and the Southern states' determination to protect slavery.

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  • BENJAMIN, JUDAH P.

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