from The State of Georgia March 16, 1870

Question

from The State of Georgia March 16, 1870

Mr. President, I rise at this particular juncture in the discussion of the Georgia bill with feelings which perhaps never before entered into the experience of any member of this body. I nse, too, with misgivings as to the propriety of lifting my voice at this early period after my admission into the Senate. Perhaps it were wiser for me, so inexperienced in the details of senatorial duties, to have remained a passive listener in the progress of this debate; but when I remember that my term is short, and that the issues with which this bill is fraught are momentous in their present and future influence upon the well-being of my race, I would seem indifferent to the importance of the hour and recreant to the high trust imposed upon me if I hesitated to lend my voice on behalf of the loyal people of the South. I therefore waive all thoughts as to the propriety of taking a part in this discussion. When questions arise which bear upon the safety and protection of the loyal... population of those states lately in rebellion I cannot allow any thought as to mere propriety to enter into my consideration of duty. The responsibilities of being the exponent of such a constituency as I have the honor to represent are fully appreciated by me.

(from "The State of Georgia, March 16, 1870" by Hiram R. Revels, Senate.gov)

What is the main conflict Revels describes in the passage?

1. if the bill about Georgia is too problematic to pass the Senate

2. if Georgia should be readmitted to the Union after the Civil War

3. if he is experienced enough in the Senate to speak about the bill

4. if he has too many responsibilities as a new member of the Senate

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3 answers
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