United States and Democracy with Slavery

Name: United States and Democracy with Slavery
Author: Samuel Taylor Coleridge

The work explores the potential future of the United States as a vast nation of free individuals, drawing parallels to England while critiquing the negative perceptions held by some English travelers towards Americans. It emphasizes the importance of mutual respect and understanding between the two nations, suggesting that a more courteous approach from the English could positively influence American public opinion. The author addresses the complexities of taxation and its perceived injustices, arguing that while some classes may feel overburdened, the overall economic system tends to balance out these disparities over time. A specific critique is directed at New England's protectionist policies, which are portrayed as tyrannical, particularly in their impact on the Southern states. This situation is likened to an unjust tax burden imposed on one region for the benefit of another, highlighting the inherent conflicts within the federal structure. The text distinguishes between two forms of unity within a state: one based on absolute equality and coordination, and the other on hierarchical subordination. The author asserts that true unity without slavery is unattainable, using historical examples to support this claim. The argument posits that a society structured on class distinctions and unequal property is fundamentally different from a church, which is based on individual merit. The work concludes by suggesting that the free class in a slave society exhibits a unique form of patriotism, driven by a desire for power and distinction. This perspective challenges conventional notions of patriotism, framing it as a complex interplay of interests rather than a simple allegiance to the state. Overall, the text presents a critical examination of American democracy, the implications of slavery, and the intricate dynamics of national identity and unity.

By Samuel Taylor Coleridge · First published 1837 · Genre: Political Philosophy, Social Critique, Historical Analysis · 789 words

First lines

The possible destiny of the United States of America, -- as a nation of a hundred millions of freemen, -- stretching from the Atlantic to the Pacific, living under the laws of Alfred, and speaking the language of Shakspeare and Milton, is an august conception. Why should we not wish to see it realized? America would then be England viewed through a solar microscope; Great Britain in a state of glorious magnification! How deeply to be lamented is the spirit of hostility and sneering which some of the popular books of travels have shown in treating of the Americans! They hate us, no doubt, just as brothers hate; but they respect the opinion of an Englishman concerning themselves ten times as much as that of a native of any other country on earth. A very little humouring of their prejudices, and some courtesy of language and demeanour on the part of Englishmen, would work wonders, even as it is, with the public mind of the Americans.

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United States and Democracy with Slavery is listed on Textopian as an essay by Samuel Taylor Coleridge, dated 1837 CE.

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Work type: Essay
Author: Samuel Taylor Coleridge
Date: 1837 CE
Language: English
Genres: Political Philosophy, Social Critique, Historical Analysis, Essay, Philosophical Literature
Length: 789 words
Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)

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Genres

Political Philosophy — The work discusses the nature of democracy, governance, and the implications of slavery within the context of American society.
Social Critique — It critiques societal norms and attitudes, particularly regarding the relationship between different states and classes in the U.S.
Historical Analysis — The text reflects on historical contexts and the evolution of American identity and governance.
Essay — The format and style resemble an essay, presenting arguments and reflections rather than a narrative plot.