Charles Sumner Men Quotations

I have never known a man who was sensual in his youth, who was high-minded when old.

The true grandeur of humanity is in moral elevation, sustained, enlightened and decorated by the intellect of man

Whatever may be the temporary applause of men, or the expressions of public opinion, it may be asserted without fear of contradiction, that no true and permanent fame can be founded, except in labors which promote the happiness of mankind.

By the Law of Slavery, man, created in the image of God, is divested of the human character, and declared to be a mere chattel.

The highest greatness, surviving time and stone, is that which proceeds from the soul of man. Monarchs and cabinets, generals and admirals, with the pomp of court and the circumstance of war, in the lapse of time disappear from sight; but the pioneers of truth, though poor and lowly, especially those whose example elevates human nature, and teaches the rights of man, so that "a government of the people, by the people, for the people, may not perish from the earth;" such a harbinger can never be forgotten, and their renown spreads co-extensive with the cause they served so well.

Nothing from man's hands, nor law, nor constitution, can be final. Truth alone is final.

If a man has done evil in his life, he must not be complimented in marble.

War crushes with bloody heel all justice, all happiness, all that is Godlike in man. In our age there can be no peace that is not honorable; there can be no war that is not dishonorable.