(ALU7DB) Civil Rights and Civil War Rhetoric in American Letters from Slaves to Senators and Presidents

The slave narrative and writings by President Abraham Lincoln, which captured the power struggles associated with the Civil War and the legacy of slavery in the United States—a legacy that still colors race relations, politics, and human rights struggles continuing in the United States today.

President Lincoln reportedly once said, “Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man’s character, give him power.” Another famous quote from Lord Acton states, “All power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.”

Discuss an experience you have had or have witnessed (whether in real life or in the media) that you think relates to or reflects the meaning of at least one of the quotes in the above passage