To the Thirty-Ninth Congress
The poem is a tribute to the 39th US Congress and its efforts to abolish slavery. It highlights the moral obligation of the nation to end the injustice of slavery and praises the courage of those who fought for it. The speaker emphasizes the importance of unity among abolitionists and the need for collective action to bring about change.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1847 · Genre: Political Poetry, Social Commentary, Historical Literature · 466 words
First lines
The thirty-ninth congress was that which met in 1565 after the close of the war, when it was charged with the great question of reconstruction; the uppermost subject in men's minds was the standing of those who had recently been in arms against the Union and their relations to the freedmen.
O PEOPLE-CHOSEN! are ye not Likewise the chosen of the Lord, To do His will and speak His word?
What this Textopian page supports
To the Thirty-Ninth Congress is listed on Textopian as an essay by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1847 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Essay
- Author: John Greenleaf Whittier
- Date: 1847 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Political Poetry, Social Commentary, Historical Literature, Advocacy Literature, Lyric Poetry
- Length: 466 words
- Structure: 1 section, 20 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Political Poetry — The work addresses themes of reconstruction and social justice in a post-war context, reflecting on political issues and moral responsibilities.
- Social Commentary — It critiques societal norms and injustices, particularly regarding race and equality, urging for a more just society.
- Historical Literature — The poem is rooted in a specific historical moment, reflecting the sentiments and challenges of the time following the Civil War.
- Advocacy Literature — It serves as a call to action for political and social reform, advocating for the rights of freedmen and equality.
Tags
American Literature · Poetry Collection · 19th Century Poetry · Abolitionist Movement · Slavery · Social Justice · Politics · Congressional Address · Speeches · Rhetoric · Oratory · Civil War Era