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Thaddeus Stevens deserves to be mentioned in any discussion about the history of American rights. Stevens believed it was the country’s responsibility to educate and ensure equal rights for all. He spent his lifetime fighting for those rights. Instrumental in Pennsylvania's Free School Act, the Emancipation Proclamation, and the 13th, 14th, and 15th amendments, Stevens' efforts continue to shape American rights today.
"…every man, no matter what his race or colour; every earthly being who has an immortal soul, has an equal right to justice, honesty, and fair play with every other man; and the law should secure him those rights.” (Thaddeus Stevens 1867)
Stevens is a controversial figure. His adversarial personality, sarcasm, and efforts for black rights made enemies and affected his place in history. Some see him an egalitarian, others a vengeful politician who hated the South.
"Stevens … was always recognized as important – both then and now ... today after so many decades, the memory of his significance has faded." (Matthew Pinsker 2014) Whichever he was, Thaddeus Stevens improved educational and civil rights in America. |
"I have done what I deemed best for humanity." (Thaddeus Stevens 1867)
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Student Word Count 1198
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