A Letter to the Editor by Traci Erlandson

A Letter to the Editor by Traci Erlandson https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w Imagine that you are an abolitionist (antislavery activist) in the 1850s. Write a letter to the editor of your local newspaper arguing against slavery. Use one of the following statements as the main idea of your letter: a) Slavery directly contradicts the religious principles of this country. b) Slavery directly contradicts the American principles of liberty and equality. c) Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide the nation. (You should write 5 to 7 sentences in letter format with a greeting and a closing.) en-us 2022-04-14 17:42:31 UTC 2022-04-27 15:20:41 UTC hello@padlet.com https://padlet.net/icons/png/2600.png Ms. Erlandson's Example terlandson https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2144198362 Dear Sir,

Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide the nation. Sentence one. Sentence two. Sentence three. Sentence four. Sentence five. Sentence six. Sentence seven.

Sincerely,
T. Erlandson]]> 2022-04-14 18:02:12 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2144198362 Dear sir, https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147154072 Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide the nation. I think that if slavery kept on it would have been very harmful. Slaves would eventually try to take over or run away which was bad. It went against the Bill of Rights because not all their people were free. Also, the abolitionists would probably retaliate against the African Americans and would start fighting. Eventually, some would see what happens to slaves was wrong and would switch sides. Slavery was one main part of the civil war and almost led to the nation's division.

Sincerely,
Mashad Griffin]]> 2022-04-18 15:49:39 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147154072 Nicholas Miller https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147154663 Dear Sir,

Slavery directly contradicts the American principles of liberty and equality. People who believe in slavery act like African Americans or are not even part of the human race. Some of the most famous people of our time had slaves but that fact was mostly forgotten. Slavery goes against the Declaration of Independence. The Declaration of Independence states that all men are created equal. Even though in the north there is no slavery many still believe that African Americans have no place in America. Slavery is the worst thing this country has ever dealt with.

Sincerely,
Nicholas Miller]]> 2022-04-18 15:50:08 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147154663 Liza Saenger https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147159344 Dear Sir,

Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide the nation. The abolitionists and southerners are going to cause a war over slavery. Many southerners are attacking anti-slavery newspapers and are causing deaths. this is going to continue to happen until something has been done to stop it. Even though the southerners claim that they need slaves to keep the economy working well, I still believe that if they were as high of a class as they say they are they would be able to keep up with their farms without them. Slavery is also unconstitutional. The Bill of Rights, states that all men are created equal and have the right to be free. In conclusion, I think that there is no room for slavery in America.

Sincerely,
Liza Saenger ]]> 2022-04-18 15:53:40 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147159344 Austyn Storz https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147168673 Dear sir,

Slavery directly contradicts the American principles of liberty and equality. The Declaration of Independence explicitly states "all men are created equal." This means that all men in the United States, regardless of race, or religion, should be treated equally and fairly. However, nothing about this was being executed during slavery. Slaves are being treated in awful and cruel ways that were in no way acceptable. Even at the end of the Declaration of Independence, it was stated "justice and liberty for all." What is just or fair about slavery?

Sincerly,
Austyn Storz]]> 2022-04-18 16:00:55 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147168673 Dear sir https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147169194 Slavery is a ticking time bomb for the country. it is driving people apart and denying humans basic rights. it is a horrible thing to own another human being and forcing them to do your work for you. they never have a chance to live their own lives. if it continues it will not only rob these people of their lives but also of their children and grandchildren. it is also causing riots among the people for abolition and to keep slavery they are killing each other over being able to own a human. they are destroying papers that talk against their opinions.

William Quirk]]> 2022-04-18 16:01:20 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147169194 Dear Sir, https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147169469 Slavery directly contradicts the American principles of liberty and equality. It is not fair and just to take a human's rights away from them because they have a different skin color. Slavery goes against the Declaration of Independence because the Declaration of Independence says that all men are created equal. Treating people like they are not people is not treating them equal, especially when one group of people is not being treated equally. Believing that African Americans are not people and do not belong in america is not going by the Declaration of Independence. Just because that is how it has been doesn't mean that it is the right thing to do. Slavery is a terrible thing that needs to stop now.

Sincerely,
Evan Asbell]]> 2022-04-18 16:01:35 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147169469 Haley Jeanne Webb https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147169937 To whoever it concerns,

Slavery directly contradicts the American principles of liberty and equality. The Declaration of Independence, states that all men are created equal. This does not exclude anyone from basic human rights or even say they are less than equal. This issue is completely unconstitutional. African Americans are denied all rights and are treated as less than human. America is supposed to be a land of the free, but a huge population is being enslaved and held captive. How does this reflect the morals and rules of this land that we fought a war to create? It completely goes against everything we are supposed to stand for. If we are able to treat African Americans as slaves and inhuman creations and the United States is supposed to be equal, what is to stop us from enslaving and harming white people as well? We are a united nation and we need to hold ourselves accountable to our proclaimed rules and principles. In conclusion f we can not stick to our principles of liberty and equality, we will fail as a nation and go against everything we stand for.

Sincerely,
Haley Jeanne Webb]]> 2022-04-18 16:02:00 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147169937 Laurel Rogers https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147170227 Dear Sir,
Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide the Nation. Slavery is a horrible thing that needs to be abolished because of how bad slaves are being treated. The Nation is already split about what to do with slaves and it is only going to get worse. Northerners have abolished slavery and are trying to get slavery abolished in the South, while southerners need the slaves for agricultural ways and will not free them. Many slaves that have escaped from slavery have told their stories to help get slavery abolished. Slavery should be abolished because of how badly many southerners treated the slaves and quickly before it tears our nation apart.
Sincerely,
Laurel Rogers ]]> 2022-04-18 16:02:14 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147170227 Slade Bohannan https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147170773 Dear Sir,

Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide the nation. As you may know, the country is divided into two separate opinions. For slavery and not for slavery. And that is splitting us apart. In order to restore peace, we need to abolish it.

Sincerely
-Slade Bohannan]]> 2022-04-18 16:02:41 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147170773 Siddiq Swanigan https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147171176 Dear editor,

I wholeheartedly believe that slavery is a knife that is about to cut the nation in half. The real reason why the north wants to abolish slavery is sickening. You might have people that had their hearts changed by the Lord-God himself, but the majority is due to envy and jealousy of political and economic power. The concept of slavery contradicts the very foundation of the Constitution and Bill of Rights: liberty, freedom, and justice for all. Even though the Constitution and Bill of Rights exclude such peoples, it is still very hypocritical and not of the Christian faith. The real religion of America is not Christianity, it is White supremacy. If it was real Christianity, none of these crimes against us Black people wouldn't have ever taken place.

Sincerely,
Siddiq Swanigan]]> 2022-04-18 16:03:00 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147171176 Jayna Klco https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147171853 To whom it may concern,

Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide the nation. There have been so many small fights that will soon become a war. People are afraid that abolitionists could begin a war between the North and South. Because of the disagreements the North and South are having, it is sometimes leading to violence. Recently near my home in Philadelphia, my friend William Lloyd Garrison was arrested during an antislavery headquarters was getting destroyed to be protected. Your newspaper offices are in danger because you are speaking up for what is right. Elijah Lovejoy’s office was attacked four times for speaking the truth. We will not hide but fight back, we will start a war if needed.
Sincerely,
Jayna Klco

]]> 2022-04-18 16:03:37 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147171853 Evan Thomas https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147173263 Dear sir,

Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide the nation. Slavery is one of the many ways that might split people apart. Between supporters and people who are against slavery. Supporters would believe that slavery would be good for work and around the house where as abolitionist are going to go against this action and say that there is not need for slaves. The slaves them self don't deserve to live like this and should have more freedom. we should put the argument to an end. In the declaration It says people should live in the pursuit of happiness and if you were to ask a slave they would say that they are they complete opposite. they would say they are fed up with their lives. We should live up to the declaration and put slavery to an end

Sincerely,
Evan Thomas ]]> 2022-04-18 16:04:44 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147173263 Emanuel Palmer VII https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147174399 Dear sir

Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide the nation. If slavery would've ended later in time, there would've been more deaths in the nation. There would be more deaths caused because slaves would try to escape or get tired of working and would've been killed. Slavery was very bad and they were treated unfairly due to the fact that just because they were African Americans

Sincerely,
Emanuel Palmer]]> 2022-04-18 16:05:35 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147174399 Lucy Dunavant https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147176254 Dear Sir,

Slavery is wedge that is going to divide the nation. Slavery is a terrible thing because of how people with different skin colors are getting treated. The slaves themselves should have more freedom and be treated with more respect. Some abolitionists newspapers are being attacked. The pro-slavery supporters set the newspaper building on fire, which caused death. The nation is getting divided and not starting to become an unsafe place, just because of slavery. The southerners need an immediately stop to slavery, rather than gradually stopping it. The southerners say that the reason they need slaves is to keep the economy working well. If the slavery doesn't stop, we will fight back which could start a war.

Sincerely,
Lucy Dunavant

]]> 2022-04-18 16:06:57 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147176254 Hudson Burns https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147176433 Dear Sir,

Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide the nation. I say this because there are two sides that are constantly poking at each other I am afraid for who will throw the first punch. One reason I agree with the abolition of slavery because it is morally wrong to hold somebody against their will and torture them with labor for no pay. the other reason is that this is supposed to be a free country but a lot of the people are not even free. I am happy that slavery is already banned in New York and I am wanting that idea to expand. But unfortunately a lot of people do not agree with me. Multiple of the newspaper publishers that support this idea have gotten their houses and printing buildings burnt to the ground by slavery supporters. So in conclusion please consider this so that this problem gets properly adressed.

Sincerely,
Hudson Burns]]> 2022-04-18 16:07:06 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147176433 Dear Sir, Joshua Green https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147183542 Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide the nation. Slavery started in 1619 and if it had kept going I'm pretty sure the world would be worse than it is right now. The Constitution, Bill of Rights, and Lady liberty all stand for freedom. Slavery in the United States completely goes against all of that. All people were made two be treated as equals. Just because someone is a different race doesn't mean they are any less than you. All who try to abolish slavery realize this and more people should to.]]> 2022-04-18 16:13:08 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147183542 Kinsley Coleman https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147184017 Dear Madam,

Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide the nation. Slavery is such a debatable topic between the north and the south. That being said there will be a lot of harm towards each other and will turn into something bigger like a war. Other reasons are slavery is so big and nationwide that it is easier for it to take over. That will cause people to be uncomfortable going to certain places or just driving by a plantation that is against slavery. It will come with buildings being burnt down and people might be killed that own slaves.

Best,
Kinsley Coleman

]]> 2022-04-18 16:13:32 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147184017 Larry Benson https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147185994 Dear sir,

Slavery is a deep divide that will split the country. Slavery is just one of the many things that can divide people. Between supporters and opponents of slavery. Supporters will indeed believe that enslavement would be beneficial for work and across the house, whereas abolitionists would argue that slaves are unnecessary. Slaves do not deserve to be treated this way and will have more freedom. We should put this debate to rest. The declaration states that people could perhaps live in the search for happiness, but if you ask a slave, they will tell you that they are the polar opposite.

Sincerely,
Larry Benson III]]> 2022-04-18 16:15:13 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147185994 Sarah Schmiedicke https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147360587 Dear Sir,

Slavery directly contradicts the American principles of liberty and equality. In the Constitution, it states that all men are created equal. Yet, slave owners continue to hold their slaves captive, beat them, not educate them, and work them to death. Slaves are men and women who deserve to live freely without fear of their life. We fought so strongly against Britain to be free and live autonomously. What are we doing contradicting this for certain American people? The color of ones skin should not define their citizenship, freedom, rights, or anything in that sort. We are the land of the free, this term should represent America as a safe haven for refugees and those in need. It's disgraceful to even have to have such a debate wether one should be treated as a real person because of how they look. Slavery goes against everything America stands for and needs to be abolished.

Sincerely,
Sarah Schmiedicke]]> 2022-04-18 18:25:22 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147360587 Sam Miraglia https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147361694 Dear Sir,

Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide the nation. When I was a child I grew up with slaves taking care of me and my family. We were happy and well-fed every day. Then one day when I was about 16 I made a friend, he was one of the slaves. I learned about his life and the hardships he faced daily. This made me see the problems with our nation and the gap forming between people everywhere. If slavery continues then something bad will happen, a war.

Sincerely,
Sam Miraglia]]> 2022-04-18 18:26:13 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147361694 https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147361913 Dear Sir,

Slavery directly contradicts the religious principles of this country. Many people have tried reforming their life after the Second Great Awaking, and with this comes a larger push from people to abolish slavery. The rise in Christianity in the country makes people wish for equality, which must mean that inequality goes directly against the christian beliefs of which this country was founded. Along with wanting better education for white men, reformers are pushing for education opportunities among all people which is impossible with slavery still in place. America was built on freedom for all people as christianity was built on love for all people and slavery, practiced in any way, goes against both of these.

Sincerely,
Laila Vidal]]> 2022-04-18 18:26:22 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147361913 Noah Marks-Gow https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147365684 Dear sir,

Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide the nation. Slavery is one of the things that split many people apart. Slave owners might start fighting over them, and then ending up killing each-other Then the community will drastically decrease because half of them want slavery and half don't. The slaves should not be living like this and they should get freedom and they should be treated right.

sincerely,
Noah Marks-Gow]]> 2022-04-18 18:28:57 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147365684 Elise Pate https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147366191 Dear Sir,

Slavery directly contradicts the American principles of liberty and equality. I firmly believe in this because in the Bill of Rights, it says that all men are created equal. Slavery is a direct violation of this promise made to the American people by the founding fathers. Enslaved people were treated like they weren't people at all. In any circumstance, slaves were not treated with any respect and they were beaten, and treated inhumanely. Equality is defined as "the state of being equal, especially in status, rights, and opportunities." Slaves did not have the same status, rights, or opportunities that free men had. Therefore, slavery is unconstitutional, because slavery contradicts the human rights laid out for America in the Constitution.

Sincerely,
Elise Pate ]]> 2022-04-18 18:29:22 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147366191 Jackson Juckett https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147366930 Dear Sir,

Slavery directly contradicts the American principles of liberty and equality. The Declaration of Independence explicitly states that "all men are created equal." This means that everyone should have the same opportunities. This especially implies that nobody should be owning other human beings. The Declaration of Independence also says that there is "liberty and justice for all." Yet, slave owners do horrible things to their slaves such as beating them, punishing them for the littlest of things, and killing them by working them too hard. This all goes to show how flawed this action is and how it goes against everything we stand for as a country.

Best,
Jackson Juckett]]> 2022-04-18 18:29:58 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147366930 Sam Grant sgrant261 https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147369074 To whoever this may concern,

Slavery very much so directly contradicts our American principles of liberty and equality. For any society to run in an efficient and meaningful way, everyone must be treated with equal respect and care, no matter how they differ. This ubiquity of slavery is truly unacceptable, and it is believed among many of us that something must be done about it. For this country to be advertised as free and open, it sure has its caveats. This deranged thought that people should be forcibly put to work with extremely unfair working conditions based on their appearance is not right at all. From that, it is understood that slavery should be abolished and these people should be freed.

Salutations,
Sam Grant]]> 2022-04-18 18:31:27 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147369074 Kerri Donaldson https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147369410 Dear sir,

Slavery directly contradicts the American principles of liberty and equality. It is stated in the 1st Amendment that people have a freedom of religion, speech, press, assembly, and petition. Why does this count for White Americans and not African Americans? Black people should be seen as American individuals as well as any White American. Slavery goes against the 1st Amendment and the Bill of Rights because slavery takes away almost all freedoms of African Americans. Slaves are being used as free labor, they are not allowed to leave without their owner's permission, and slaves were not allowed to read or write. The practice of slavery disputes against liberty and equality.

Sincerely,
Kerri Donaldson]]> 2022-04-18 18:31:42 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147369410 Klarke Motley https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147369886 To whomever it concerns,

Slavery is a wedge that will divide this very nation. Long ago, people were taken from their homes and forced to a new land just to be whipped and beaten for not doing work that could be done on our own. People are here arguing for something that, if it happened to them, they wouldn't like. Abolitionists argue for a basic human right while supporters of slavery hurt those that simply disagree. If slavery causes problems to where anybody can get hurt, America should have none of it. Those who see work as impossible without slavery are not the ones actually doing the work. The people who aren't actually working are causing issues saying that removing slavery removes "their" work, and are dividing the nation and ruining it.

-Klarke M.]]> 2022-04-18 18:32:04 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147369886 Marlon Yates https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147371422 Dear Sir,

Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide the nation. The two sides of the nation and different views on slavery are something that can only get worse and worse. The north which is more against slavery and the south is more for slavery is already a split in the nation. This country in my eyes is supposed to bring people together with freedoms and if this is dividing the country, that is going against that. If there is not an agreement or a solution to this, the nation could end up in a war with each other. Slavery needs to be ended and have it bring people together not tear us apart.

Sincerely,
Marlon Yates]]> 2022-04-18 18:33:15 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147371422 Sam Peregoy https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147372104 Dear sir,

Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide the nation. Slavery is one of the most controversial topics that the nation is currently facing. This controversial topic could upset and even spark violence in this nation which could cause a civil war of some sort. I firmly believe that slavery is one of the most inhuman and cruel things humans can do to each other. Slave are forced to work hard work in horrible conditions for the rest of their lives with no chances of leaving or rest. slavery is one of the worst things humans can do to each other.

Sincerely Sam P ]]> 2022-04-18 18:33:43 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147372104 Connor Lewis clewis264 https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147375296 Dear sir,

Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide the nation. This has already divided the north and south because the north is very much against it and the south is all for it. If we want to keep America from splitting apart we must stop slavery. The people that are against it are concerned for the well-being of humans. The people that are all for slavery think it is right to force someone to do their work. All in all I do not think slavery is right and there is nothing good about it.

Sincerely,
Connor Lewis]]> 2022-04-18 18:36:18 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147375296 Ethan Zhao https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147375453 Dear sir,

Slavery directly contradicts the American principles of liberty and equality. Slavery is a horrendous practice that is not American at all and should be abolished. The United States of America was founded on the principle that everyone is equal and deserves human rights. In the Declaration of Independence, it states that "we hold these truths to be self-evident that all men are created equal". Slaves are forced to do hard labor and are worked till they are nearly dead. African-Americans throughout the United States are discriminated and hurt just because of their skin color. Supporters of slavery say that they are treated well and work in better conditions than white Northerners in factories. This is completely false and outrageous to say as slaves do not even have basic human rights. Please consider these facts and understand just how atrocious and evil slavery is.

Sincerely,
Ethan Zhao]]> 2022-04-18 18:36:25 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147375453 Dev Dalsania https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147375609 Dear Sir,

Slavery directly contradicts the American principles of liberty and equality. Slavery is all it takes to split a nation in half. The fact that a person owns another person is so wrong and inhumane. Nonetheless, the person who was owned would be beat, tortured, and wouldn't receive any form of money. Some forms of torture were being whipped, beat, burned, and in severe cases, even hung. People in the North, Northerners or Abolitionists, wanted to abolish slavery. People in the South, Southerners, wanted to keep slavery because it benefitted them in terms of money. Right now, things are vocal but in the future, this situation will escalate and maybe turn into a war. For the safety of all United States Citizens, stop slavery!

Sincerely,
Dev Dalsania]]> 2022-04-18 18:36:34 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147375609 Sarah Beth Beckham https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147380704 Dear Sir,

I believe that slavery directly contradicts the American principles of liberty and equality. In the Declaration of Independence, Thomas Jefferson writes, "all men are created equal." It is important that we use these values of equality in our government whether these people are black or white. No person should be sold or forced to work without money, it is unconstitutional and wrong to consider some people free and others not. The reason we fought the British is because we wanted freedom and there is no point in fighting for freedom for some and not others. Overall, slavery is against America's principles and it is wrong.

Sincerely,
Sarah Beth Beckham

]]> 2022-04-18 18:40:38 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147380704 Leala Williams https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147384547 Dear editor,

Slavery completely rebels against America's idea of what is constitutional and what is not. In the Declaration of Independence, it almost explicitly states that this nation is a free nation and every human should be guaranteed their rights. Slavery works completely against it and is completely inhumane. The constitution also states what rights the country's company is entitled to. Also, think about if you were in their shoes; they don't want to be owned or placed under seemingly inescapable manual labor with no pay. They want to be able to live their own lives: have jobs, be able to raise their own children, have their own home, and basically end the reign of "white supremacy." Just because they are being provided shelter, food, and medical care, it does not and never will mean that slavery is at all humane. If this country is an advocate for "liberty and justice for all," it should live up to it, shouldn't it?

Sincerely,
Leala Williams]]> 2022-04-18 18:43:41 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147384547 Landon Parrish https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147391052 Dear sir,

Slavery directly contradicts the American principles of liberty and equality. The Declaration of Independence states that "all men are created equal." However slavery disregards this promise. Everyone should be treated equally and given the same opportunities, regardless of their skin color. Nobody should be owned by another person and forced to work against their will. Slavery violates the constitution and should be abolished.

Sincerely,
Landon Parrish]]> 2022-04-18 18:48:59 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147391052 Sam Davidson https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147392566 Dear sir,

Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide the nation. Slavery will eventually lead this nation into a war. Recently, I have learned how horrible slavery is. Before, I was in between about slavery and felt no need to get involved. I have never owned slaves and never had the desire to. Once I had learned about their harsh lives, I knew it wasn't right. Slavery should not be allowed in the U.S. or anywhere. In time, a war will break out if we do not stop slavery soon.

Sincerely,
Sam Davidson]]> 2022-04-18 18:50:17 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147392566 Ava Magness https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147457823 Dear sir,
Slavery directly contradicts the American principles of liberty and equality. Equality is meant for everyone to be created equal no matter what race they may be. These slaves are not given any liberty at all. In the Declaration of Independence, Thomas Jefferson writes, "all men are created equal." Slavery is choosing to ignore this and only treat some people equally. If Americans will not treat everyone equally, then how can we call ourselves American?

Sincerely,
Ava Magness]]> 2022-04-18 19:37:30 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147457823 Will Miraglia https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147458711 Dear sir,

Slavery directly contradicts the American principals of liberty and equality. The declaration of indepence says that "all men are created equally". That should mean that the afircan americans should be freed and given the same rights as the white citizens. The african americans should be given the same opportunities and be allowed the same jobs as the white people. Slavery is a controdiction to what the country was supposed to be and I won't stand for it.

Sincerely,
Will Miraglia ]]> 2022-04-18 19:38:20 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147458711 Riley Stooksbury https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147460738 Dear sir,
I believe that slavery directly contradicts the American principles of liberty and equality. In The Declaration of Independence it clearly states that "all men are created equal." This is concluding that no matter the skin tone all people should be free. It is completely unconstitutional that people back then would sell people and act like they are worth nothing. Slaves were treated awful and unfairly which in no was is acceptable. This act has turned people against each other and cause trouble in this country. In conclusion slavery should be completely abolished because this act goes against the principles of liberty and equality.

Sincerely,
Riley Stooksbury]]> 2022-04-18 19:40:15 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147460738 Arabella Larson https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147464858 Dear sir,

Slavery directly contradicts the American principles of liberty and equality. In the Declaration of independence, it clearly states the "All men are created equal." Even though this statement is a guideline for our whole country, some states do not follow this rule by owning slaves. Slavery goes against this on all sides, if all men are created equal then why is slavery, or owning other humans because of their skin color, tolerable. Overall, I think that slavery should be abolished and that we should remember that all people are created equal.

Sincerely,
Arabella Larson ]]> 2022-04-18 19:43:46 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147464858 Aiden Rubin de la Borbolla https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147468161 Dear Editor,

I think that slavery goes against the principal thoughts of our country. When writing the Declaration of Independence, did Thomas Jefferson not claim that all people had the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness? Did he not also claim that "all men are created equal?" These slaves are not free, and they do not have any rights. These people are being sold like property! I find this unacceptable and advise you to spread anti-slave messages throughout your newspaper.

Your Regards,
Aiden]]> 2022-04-18 19:46:29 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147468161 Kyle Curlee https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147471342 Dear Sir,

Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide the nation. Tension between the north and the south is already visible and is arising. To keep a division in the country and having a flat out civil war, we have to put an end to this. I believe that slavery is hurting our country more than helping and is leading to an apparent war. It is just a matter of time if we do not stop slavery that we will be at risk of division.

Sincerely,
K Curlee]]> 2022-04-18 19:49:12 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147471342 Elena Sallee https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147476618 Dear sir,

Slavery directly contradicts the American principles of liberty and equality. Slavery is entirely inhumane and cruel, and it shouldn't represent the American way whatsoever, thus it should be abolished. After all, the Bill of Rights states "all men should be created equal," yet there are white people owning slaves because of the color of their skin. It's wrong and everything points to the fact that this directly contradicts our principles as Americans and has always been inherently evil. These slaves aren't free and they should be freed and given rights immediately. Slavery should be abolished, and all people shall be equal, as the ways of our principles.

Sincerely,
Elena ]]> 2022-04-18 19:54:00 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147476618 Will Getman https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147481108 Dear sir,

Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide the nation. If this practice goes on then there will be consequences. People are only getting more angry at the south and soon it could lead to a division of the United States. No person should have to work for another without even a choice. If you would put yourself in a slave's shoes then it would not seem so normal to own slaves. Every person should be free and at least have the right to make their own choices. Since "every man is created equal" the practice of slavery directly contradicts this statement. I along with many others believe that slavery is absolutely horrible and would suggest that you stop using slaves and free them this instant.

Sincerely,
Will Getman]]> 2022-04-18 19:57:59 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147481108 Melissa Villa https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147482609 Dear sir,

Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide the nation. The tension between the North and South is beginning to rise at an alarming rate. Stories of formerly enslaved workers are coming to light and the behavior they had to put up with is unbelievable. Mobs are breaking into private facilities and even murdering abolitionists. The North and South are going head to head with each other on the matter and it seems that a war is about to break out. There should be no reason that the North is free for African Americans and still running, yet the South refuses to let these enslaved workers go. This should not be an argument. Slavery should be banned all over the United States.

Sincerely,
Melissa Villa]]> 2022-04-18 19:58:26 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147482609 Jackson Pryor https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147488483 Dear Sir,

I take my pen in hand this time in order to tell you that slavery goes against the foundational principles of liberty and equality of our country, America. Our ancestors and founding fathers fought for freedom and liberty, and yet, some of us take that for granted. What is most preposterous, though, is that some of us, who call themselves "Americans", mind you, believe it is within their liberty to strip others of it! And never let us forget the most iconic line "...all men are created equal..." that Jefferson put it our declaration of independence so many years ago. Some slave owners, it seems, would like to neglect that statement, and instead place monetary gain over the respect that our fellow men deserve. Some of them even think they are above others just because of the tone of their skin! It is blasphemous that they have the arrogance to call themselves "American" while clearly going against the values our founding fathers and this country stand for!

Respectfully,
Jackson S. Pryor, a concerned American]]> 2022-04-18 20:03:32 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147488483 Jordyn Rosser https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147495534 Dear sir,

I firmly believe that slavery goes against everything the states stands for. It goes directly against our principles of liberty. We can't say that we stand for liberty and freedom if half of our country is rooted in slavery. We can't just preach something and not practice it. We can't preach equality and then proceed to do the exact opposite. I can only hope that something is done soon. The people of America will not tolerate this for much longer. There is only so much time that we can hold out.

Yours truly,
J. Rosser

]]> 2022-04-18 20:10:29 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147495534 Addison Young https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147496603 Dear sir,

Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide the nation. I think that if slavery would've kept on going, we would not have the nation we have now. The society will be totally different and divided. We would not have half the stuff we have. Having slavery goes against the Bill of Rights because everybody will not have the same rights and all be free. If African Americans are not let free the world will be an even scarier and very evil place to live. Let the slaves go right away and live a better life.

Sincerely,
Addison Young]]> 2022-04-18 20:11:36 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147496603 Halligan Bulthaus https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147498859 Dear Editor,

Slavery directly contradicts the American principles of liberty and equality. Thats why I feel that what you wrote only further proves the statement. The American value of equality was not placed upon all who lived in the nation. It is stated in the constitution "all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness." The Southern stance on slavery that is written about only opposes the Souths patriotism for the nation. Slavery does not follow the constitution and should for that valid reason be abolished.

Sincerely,
H. Bulthaus ]]> 2022-04-18 20:13:47 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147498859 Kaitlin White https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147654083 Dear Sir,

Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide the nation. Slavery was a cruel and traumatizing experience for so many African Americans because they were kidnapped from their homes and forced to work for without pay for other people. Take a minute and think about how you would feel if you were in their shoes and see what they face on a day to day basis. Instead of worrying about how the economic system in the south will fall, you should focus on the inhume fact that you own slaves and work them to death. In the Declaration of Independence it even states that all men are equal. How do you and so many others think this is really an okay thing to do?

Sincerely,
Kaitlin]]> 2022-04-18 23:15:47 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147654083 Jade Masters https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147836749 To whomever this may concern,

Slavery directly contradicts the American principles of liberty and equality. In the Constitution itself it states that everyone has Three God given rights: "Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness." These rights are thrown out of the window in the actions of slavery. Slaves have absolutely no liberty and their "pursuit of happiness" is also thwarted by slavery. The right to live is also taken away in countless occasions with no justice all. Not only are these rights violated but so are so many others. People in support of slavery spout contradictory claims and simples lies in order to help convince others that this cruel act against others is alright. There is no instance in witch slavery is or should be acceptable. How would you feel if a price was slapped on your head and you sold off to be worked until you die with little food or necessities provided at all? That is the life of the average slave. What on Earth possessed people to start being so cruel and hateful just because of one's appearance? This is why slavery should and needs to be abolished.

Sincerely,
Jade Masters]]> 2022-04-19 02:03:55 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2147836749 Pippa Rhodes https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2148661976 Dear Sir,

Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide our nation. Slavery contradicts our countries principles of liberty and freedom. The Constitution directly states that everyone has these three God given rights: "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness." The Constitution states that EVERYONE has these rights. African Americans deserve the same chances and opportunities as white people. I believe that slavery is destroying our country and tearing people apart. As well as many others, I believe that slavery should be abolished.

Sincerely,
Pippa]]> 2022-04-19 14:15:36 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2148661976 Lucca Ziskind https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2150445017 Dear Sir,

Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide the nation. The constant disagreement about slavery between parties is going to eventually lead us into war. I was born into a country where this cruel labor towards African Americans has been normalized and over time i've realized how cruel it really is. The Declaration of Independence states that "all men are created equal." However slavery contradicts this promise. Just because someones skin color is different than yours does not make them less of a human being. If we continue to encourage slavery and not abolish it as soon as possible our nation will crumble right in front of us.

Sincerely,
Lucca Ziskind ]]> 2022-04-20 14:27:43 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2150445017 Jasper Rhodes https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2150800082 Dear Sir,

Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide the nation. The controversial idea of slavery causes division between the two sides with an impending doom: war. We must overcome this problem and understand the slaves are not below us but are human beings and are just like us. The constitution states that "all men are created equal" This clearly means that the idea of owning a human must be abolished and we must include them just as we include our fellow citizens of the United States. If we do not take action now our country will tear itself apart and eventually take part in a war against both sides of this despicable idea of slavery.

Sincerely,
Jasper Rhodes]]> 2022-04-20 18:12:03 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2150800082 Ally Bjorkman https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2150831977 Dear Sir,

Slavery directly contradicts the American principles of liberty and equality. The Fourteenth Amendment in the Constitution directly states that "...nor shall any State deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law...". It does not mention a person's race or color, it says that any person (no matter what color skin they have) deserves the rights that only whites seem to get. Slavery is not only unconstitutional, but it also robs African Americans of all of their rights. If we as a country care so much about laws going against the constitution so much as to veto them, then why do we think slavery is okay?

Sincerely,
Ally Bjorkman]]> 2022-04-20 18:33:11 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2150831977 Quinn Showalter https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2150902818 Dear Sir,

Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide the nation. The controversial idea of slavery causes division between the two sides with an impending doom: war. We must overcome this obstacle by understanding that slaves are human beings who are similar to us. "All men are created equal," according to the constitution. This plainly implies that the concept of owning a human being must be abandoned, and we must include them among our fellow Americans. If we do not act now, our country will be torn apart, and we will be forced to fight a war against both sides of the horrible concept of slavery.

Sincerely,
Quinn Showalter]]> 2022-04-20 19:26:12 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2150902818 Hayden Redd hredd26 https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2150905484 Dear sir,

Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide the nation. The three God-given rights of "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness" are explicitly stated in the Constitution. Everyone has these rights, according to the Constitution. African Americans are entitled to the same opportunities and possibilities as white people. Slavery, I feel, is ruining our country and tearing families apart. Slavery, like many others, is something I feel should be abolished.

Sincerely,
Hayden Redd]]> 2022-04-20 19:28:33 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2150905484 Mason Merkle https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2150910524 Dear Good Sir,

Slavery directly contradicts the American principles of liberty. The Declaration of Independence stated that "all men are created equal," yet the very idea of slavery contradicts the ideal of equality. Slavery is when a man owns another man, and the slave has no rights. If we, as a nation, wish to be able to validate ourselves as a nation dedicated to freedom and equality, slavery has to go. The slow removal of slavery would not work, as it is just more time for the slaves to be enslaved, and it would give the Southerners more time to resist emancipation. The only way to ensure the freedom of all men is to remove slavery and remove it with all haste.

With high regards,
Mason J Merkle]]> 2022-04-20 19:32:57 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2150910524 Will Weathersby https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2150911325 Dear Sir,

Slavery is a wedge that is going to separate the nation. Slavery is a very debatable subject between both north and south. With that being said there will be impending doom: war. There are some other reasons slavery is just so bad to other people. That will follow with riots, buildings being burnt down, and people killed by their own slaves.
Slavery is very bad to everyone including violating American principles of liberty and equality and human rights. If this continues then war will begin soon.

Sincerely,
Will Weathersby]]> 2022-04-20 19:33:38 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2150911325 Hudson Corbin https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2150911561 Dear sir,

Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide the nation. Slavery is a very poor way to represent our nation. It's impossible to put into perspective of how terrible slavery really is. The slaves are treated poorly, and forced to work in bitter cold and steaming hot days. Buying and selling real human beings is a really gross and unethical. Slaves were beaten, whipped, and branded. This isn't a good way to represent our nation as it shows the other nations how we treated other humans. The United States was made to make each other equal and free, so why should other humans be treated differently based off of their skin color? Slavery contradicts the way that the United States wants to be represented. Everyone should be held accountable for the mistakes that they've made. If we want going to be labeled as a free country, we must work for it to really be a true statement. Slavery is an unconstitutional and removes the rights of African Americans, this is a disgusting and bias thing which must be abolished.

Sincerely,
Hudson Corbin]]> 2022-04-20 19:33:51 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2150911561 Ethan Crews https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2150913620 Dear sir,

Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide the nation. The idea of slavery is terrible because it will turn the Southerns and Northerns against each other. The people of the country need to understand that slaves are human like us even though they are different.
However, they are different than us we should allow them to become fellow Americans. In conclusion, I think slavery should be abolitionized since it is a terrible thing.

Sincerely,
Ethan Crews]]> 2022-04-20 19:35:40 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2150913620 Victoria Sandoval https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2150918136 Dear Sir,
Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide our nation. Slavery was a horrible experience for so many African Americans for a lot of reasons, like being forced to work for people without pay. The constitution states that has three God given rights: "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness." I am sure that not one African American felt like they had any of those rights. That is a horrible place to be in especially saying other people were doing that to them. What I am trying to say is slavery is a horrible and wicked thing that should be abolished and never to be remembered.

Sincerely,
Victoria Sandoval]]> 2022-04-20 19:40:00 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2150918136 Denton Smith https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2150919653 Dear Sir,

Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide the nation, or even destroy it. With the north wanting to get rid of slavery and the south wanting to grow it, sooner or later they would start fighting not just with words. If the north and south fought it could end up with America splitting into separate countries. I feel like the south would get the best of this separation because they could keep doing slavery. The north would get the least out of this because they would fail at ending slavery. Eventually, the two sides would most likely go to war if they already wouldn't be at war.

Sincerely,
Denton Smith]]> 2022-04-20 19:41:25 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2150919653 Austin Harris https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2150919887 Dear Sir,

Slavery directly contradicts the American principles of liberty and equality. The Declaration of Independence says "all men are created equal" if this is the case then why should it be ok to have enslaved African Americans. If we truly believe all men are created equal then slavery should be immediately ended. In addition, the Declaration of Independence also says "with liberty and justice for all". Slavery does not show justice for all, instead, it shows that America does not truly stand by how it was founded. Lastly, another example of slavery contradicting "justice for all" is how hard slaves are worked for no pay or any respect. In order to truly stand by the way our country was founded, we must end slavery.

Sincerely,

Austin Harris]]> 2022-04-20 19:41:33 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2150919887 West Smith https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2150920750 Dear Sir,

Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide the nation. Ever since the pilgrims landed in Plymouth slavery has always been an issue throughout the united states. It has been almost 100 years since America has become our own nation and we still haven't done anything about slavery. Slavery is going to completely separate the United States because in the North slavery is banned and in the South, slavery is used everywhere. Slavery is terrible the Declaration of Independence states "and liberty and justice for all" that doesn't just mean for white males that means everyone, African Americans, women, boys, and girls it doesn't matter who you are in America you should have equality and freedom. So, I believe that slavery should be abolished before a war breaks out between our country.

Sincerly,

West Smith ]]> 2022-04-20 19:42:21 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2150920750 Lila McClain https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2150923096 Dear Sir,
Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide the nation. One huge difference that the north and the south have is slavery. The north wants to get rid of it and help the nation realize how awful it is but the south wants to keep it. To avoid the division of our nation we need to figure out a solution to get rid of slavery. Slavery is a horrible thing that lets humans treat other humans like work animals. It is unacceptable to treat another human so poorly and to make them do miserable things without pay. The arguments between the north and the south are going to end up separating our nation so we have to stop it.

Sincerely,
Lila McClain]]> 2022-04-20 19:44:25 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2150923096 Jack Wolaver https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2150923225 Dear Sir,
Slavery directly contradicts the American principles of liberty and equality. The Declaration of Independence states that ALL men are equal. But African Americans are being chained and enslaved in the southern states. These acts directly defy our nation's founding principles. I feel like this is an issue that if congress did not deal with it at the founding of the nation, they should deal with it immediately. There are thousands more people who think just like I do up in the north, and some even in the
south. I feel that congress should immediately recognize that slavery directly violates the country's founding principles. I feel like you should also write an article in an upcoming paper about your opinions on slavery.

Sincerely,
Jack Wolaver.]]> 2022-04-20 19:44:33 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2150923225 Cort Casey https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2150923253 Dear Sir,

Slavery directly contradicts the American principles of liberty and equality. The constitution states that all men are created equal. However, slavery contradicts that statement. Slaves are not treated with the same dignity and respect that all Americans deserve. Slavery should be abolished and slaves should be given the freedoms that all Americans enjoy. Slaves do not have the same opportunities at life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness that the constitution states. Slaves work hard all day and get nothing in return. The people of America cannot truly be equal until slavery is abolished.

Sincerely,
Cort Casey]]> 2022-04-20 19:44:34 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2150923253 Lana Cole https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2150926979 Dear Sir,

Slavery directly contradicts the American principles of liberty and equality. Slavery strips African Americans of all rights that are protected by the constitution. The constitution states that "all men are created equal." If all men are created equal then why are African Americans cruelly discriminated against just for the color of their skin? Slavery is directly unconstitutional and should be abolished immediately. Not only is it unconstitutional but it is also a cruel and evil practice that negates African Americans of their basic human rights. It is unacceptable and hypocritical that our nation allows for such horrible atrocities. I hope that our nation will come to its senses and abolish slavery.

Sincerely,
Lana Cole]]> 2022-04-20 19:47:36 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2150926979 Brooklynn Wooten https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2150934457 Dear Sir,

Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide the nation. People in the north want to get rid of slavery but people in the south want it to continue. Different parts of the nation cant agree on whether slavery should discontinue or if slavery should grow. This will cause the north & south to split up/ separate and many bad things can happen. It could cause violence such as a war between the north and the south. Slavery should be abolished in order to keep our nation safe.

Sincerly,
Brooklynn Wooten]]> 2022-04-20 19:54:04 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2150934457 Hayden Mulrooney hmulrooney26 https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2150941107 Dear Sir,

Slavery directly contradicts the American principles of liberty and equality. Our country wants to be known for being able to be free and to live however you would like to live. With slavery being widely practiced in America, these values that our country wants to have are unrealistic. These principles cannot be a characteristic of this country without slavery ending. Slavery is neither liberty nor equality towards slaves and is a bad example of what America wants to be. If slavery doesn't end, America can never be what it wants to be.

Sincerely,
Hayden Mulrooney]]> 2022-04-20 20:00:08 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2150941107 Dee Moore https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2150950973 Dear Sir,

Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide the nation. The north and south sides of the U.S. are becoming tenser every day. Slavery is harming our country and could soon drive us apart. In order to prevent this, we must ban slavery immediately. For if we do not, we may be united no longer.

Sincerely,
Dee Moore]]> 2022-04-20 20:09:27 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2150950973 Allison Young https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2151923505 Dear Sir,

Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide the nation. In the South, they believe that slavery is a good thing and should be continued. This is because they make money off of trading slaves and forcing them to work. Also, they do not think of the slaves as humans and they love the power that it gives them. While in the North, they believe that Slavery is evil and should cease to exist. This is because they believe that the slaves are humans too, and they deserve freedom and equality. Even though slavery is very popular in some states, not everyone believes in it. This is why, if slavery continues, the nation will eventually turn against each other.

Sincerely,
Allison Young]]> 2022-04-21 12:04:50 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2151923505 Rollin Crose https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2152019399 Dear Sir,

Slavery is a wedge that will divide the nation. The North will go against the South in this agreement. Forcing the nation to divide. The North wants it to be gone, and for users to realize it is a terrible thing. The South is getting more and more slaves every day. Causing the nation to split since neither side want to budge. The argument is poor, we have these people that do manual labor for no money while others get to sit back and allow others to do the work for them. This shows how awful slavery is, and shouldn't even be an argument.

Sincerely,
Rollin Crose ]]> 2022-04-21 13:14:46 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2152019399 Brayden Dmuchowski https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2152258899 Dear Sir,

Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide the nation. The south's economy is entirely based off of slavery. Most northerners disagree with slavery, but some agree with it. This splits a part of a nation thats already split. Nothing good will come from this "civil disagreement." I believe that the abolitionists need to keep fighting. These men and women will eventually attract enough attention from someone. Wether or not this ends in a peaceful or violent outcome, something needed to be done.

Best regards,
Brayden D.]]> 2022-04-21 15:41:11 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2152258899 Alex Dunn https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2152262166 Dear Sir,

Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide the nation. African Americans, in the South, want freedom. Whites do not want to let African Americans run freely, yet whites can themselves. Everyone is a human, and everyone should be treated equally. People say it will take a toll on the economy, but will it? African Americans would want to get jobs, start families, buy houses, and live life freely, but they can't do that unless you stop slavery. The North stopped it, but Southerners believe otherwise; this is why the nation is divided, and will be divided more if we don't put a stop to these inhumane standards. You trust African Americans with your crops, which is profit; why not trust them with the economy? Change is needed, otherwise your economy, will fail, as slaves rebel.

Sincerely,
Alex D. ]]> 2022-04-21 15:43:13 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2152262166 Gavin Malott https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2152262983 Dear Sir,

Slavery directly contradicts the American principles of liberty and equality. As said in the United States Constitution itself, liberty is the main ideal for life in a country so great as America. If liberty means "the state of being free within society from oppressive restrictions imposed by authority on one's way of life, behavior, or political views," how can we continue to enslave other human beings with the excuse of "it is the way of life?" And what about equality? I don't even need to write a definition for that one. We should all know that slavery is not equal, right, moral, or just, no matter what we tell ourselves. Even if slavery was not a thing, how much do you want to bet that our society would still not be equal towards African Americans or any other minority group, like women? America is sick with inequality, and we need to fix it.

Please think about this issue,
G. Malott]]> 2022-04-21 15:43:39 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2152262983 Emery Payne https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2152265210 Dear Sir,

Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide the nation. Northerners have a very different opinion than Southerners, considering the majority of them do not tolerate slavery. On the other hand, Southerners strongly support slavery and believe slavery is just a way of life, which is horrible. Both of these opinions contradict each other, which is leading to the nation becoming divided. We need to act now, and find a solution to stop slavery before this gets too far. All people should be equal and no human being should be forced into labor just because of their skin color, it is just not fair.

Sincerely,
Emery Payne]]> 2022-04-21 15:45:05 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2152265210 Lilly Williamson https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2152265438 Dear Sir,

Slavery directly contradicts the American principles of liberty and equality. In the constitution, it states that everyone has the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of hapiness. Slavery may be somewhat beneficial to the white plantation owners, however that does not compare to the horrible pain it inflicts on the enslaved. Slaveowners claim that their slaves are treated well with food and medical care, which is not only the bare minimum but untrue. When slaves "disobey" it results in violence and brutality(sometimes causing death) against the slaves. Not abolishing slavery would not only be unconstitutional but inhumane.

Sincerely,
Lilly W.]]> 2022-04-21 15:45:13 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2152265438 Sarah Kilmurray https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2152265445 Dear Sir,

Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide the nation. The north and the south are in completely different places having very different points of view. If we do not abolish slavery soon I'm afraid it could lead to a large divide in our nation. Many people already want it abolished and are finding ways around it, like the Underground Railroad. Even if the south wants slaves they can't continue to have them if they figure out a way around it. Slavery is evil and shines a light on our country that is not acceptable. Please consider that slavery is doing more harm than good and see all the consequences that are occurring or going to occur. As you can see there is reason enough to abolish slavery and hopefully, our country can notice that and fix what's left of it.

Sincerely,
Sarah Kilmurray]]> 2022-04-21 15:45:13 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2152265445 Will Love https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2152265549 Dear Sir,

Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide the nation. With the North being against it, and the South being with it, every day tension between the two will grow worse and worse. Northerners are becoming more hostile with the idea of slavery, while Southerners are the exact opposite with the south who believe that slavery is a part of life. There is no realistic way we can make both of them happy, but if we abolish slavery they will have no choice but to accept this, and later on in life that division between the North and the South will be no more. To add onto that problem of division, slavery is an awful thing, forcing people into labour just because they are a certain skin color, treating them as if they were not human, the odds of it ending peacefully either way is very low, so why not have something good come with the outcome.

Sincerely,
Will Love]]> 2022-04-21 15:45:17 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2152265549 Mary Clark Consolo https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2152266733 Dear Sir,

Slavery directly contradicts the American principles of liberty and equality. Slavery goes directly against our Declaration of Independence that all men are created equal. This should mean that no matter what race, age, color, religion, etc... all Americans should be treated equally. If this is the case then it is completely unfair for African Americans to be enslaved. African Americans are being forced to work for whites which is completely unfair and goes against everything in the Bill of Rights. Slaves are not treated with the same dignity and respect as others. The Bill of Rights directly states "with liberty and justice for all." Slavery shows no justice whatsoever and proves that America is not standing by its original founders. I hope our country can realize how hypocritical it is to treat people unfairly especially when the opposite of that is directly stated in Our constitution. We must abolish slavery.

Sincerely,

Mary Clark Consolo]]> 2022-04-21 15:46:02 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2152266733 Mary May Luton https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2152267063 Dear Sir,

Slavery is a wedge that will divide the nation. People in the South believe that slavery should still be in effect. While people in the North believe that it should be abolished completely. This conflict between the North and South is only one reason why slavery will divide the nation. It will also divide the nation because African Americans will feel like they are not being treated equally and white people will continue to look down on them. Slavery should be abolished because it is unfair treatment and not a part of what is stated about equality and liberty for all American people in the constitution. The longer slavery continues the worse our country will divide.

Sincerely,
Mary May Luton]]> 2022-04-21 15:46:16 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2152267063 Miles McNamee https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2152269978 Dear sir,
Slavery is. a wedge that will divide the nation. Slavery is a really bad thing that is happening. The north and the south have two different opinions on it. The north hardly knows what's happening in the south. The south is enslaving so many African Americans and the north is barely aware of what's happening. The north thinks that it should be abolished but the south is not in agreement. Our country will begin to divide if nothing is done about it.

Sincerely,
Miles Mcnamee

]]> 2022-04-21 15:48:07 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2152269978 Jack Pate https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2152271671 Dear sir,

Slavery is a wedge that will divide the nation as we know it. The North and South sides of the nation are getting more and more angry at each other as the days go by. The North believes that slavery is an inhumane thing to do and that it is an abuse of social positioning and labor. The South believes that slavery is a big boost to their economy and that to stop slavery is to put the whole South side of the country into poverty. But risks will need to be taken if we are to reach equality between everyone. If we are to reach this agreement we need to think on this, please consider.

Sincerely,
Jack Pate]]> 2022-04-21 15:49:12 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2152271671 Grace Allen https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2152274235 Dear Sir,

Slavery directly contradicts the American principles of liberty and equality. It is stated that all men are created equal and justice for all. Slavery goes against that in every way. All people should be treated equally. These slaves aren't treated equally and they should be freed and given rights immediately. Slavery is in every way wrong and is tearing apart people. Slavery shows no justice whatsoever. Slavery is the worst thing this country has dealt with. Slavery must end now.
Sincerely,
Grace Allen ]]> 2022-04-21 15:50:49 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2152274235 Rhea Sriram https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2152280990 Dear Sir,

Slavery directly contradicts the American principles of liberty and equality. This idea of slavery completely refutes the purpose of our nation is one. This fight of whether our nation should completely degrade a group of people due to their skin color should not be a "battle" in the first place. This nation promises equality and unity but continues to cause death because others do not agree with their ideas of hurting people based on the way they were born. Slave owners malnourish, beat, and keep slaves away from their rights to education. It is stated in the man's rights that they have a right to freedom of religion, speech, press, assembly, and petition. Yet African Americans are being singled out from these rights. Do you truly believe this follows a system of equality? And do you think it is wiser to focus on a person's skin color and appearance, rather than their morals and behaviorisms?

Sincerely,
Rhea Sriram]]> 2022-04-21 15:55:01 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2152280990 Abbey Weidenhoffer https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2152284026 Dear Sir,

I believe that slavery is a wedge that is going to eventually divide our country. Our country has split into two types of beliefs. Abolitionists who believe that slavery needs to be completely taken out of the American system and slaveowners who think that they need slaves to maintain their land. Already we have seen many incidents where abolitionists have been attacked by slaveowners. There is also a big threat of war between the slaveowners and abolitionists which would take a huge step forward to the destruction of our nation. To stop this disagreement and hatred we just need to remove the problem which means to remove slavery and put our nation at peace.

Sincerely,
Abbey Weidenhoffer]]> 2022-04-21 15:56:51 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2152284026 Caroline Cochran https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2152284098 Dear Sir,

Slavery is a wedge that will divide the nation. People in the North think that slavery should be abolished completely but people in the South think that slavery should still be in effect today. The North and South will be the reason that slavery divided the nation. To keep the nation from dividing, we need to find a way to get rid of slavery. Slavery is a terrible thing and it treats humans very poorly. If we do not stop this soon, we could go into war. Slavery should be banned everywhere in the United States.

Sincerely,
Caroline Cochran ]]> 2022-04-21 15:56:53 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2152284098 Derrick McCoy https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2152296691 Dear Sir,

Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide the nation. With the North and South having two separate opinions on slavery, the South believing it is good and the North believing it is bad, this will divide the country into two. The south gained more slaves each day. The North is completely against slavery. Slavery is one of the worst parts of our history. Slavery is a terrible thing that African Americans had to go through back then.
Sincerely,
Derrick McCoy]]> 2022-04-21 16:05:18 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2152296691 London M. https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2152301505 Dear Sir,

Slavery directly contradicts the American principles of liberty and equality. The nation is divided with the North and South's opinion differences. The North believes that slavery should be abolishes, while the South takes part. Why are we degrading African Americans for being who they are? How are we proud of The pledge of Allegiance where it says, "liberty and justice for all?" America has to realize we a downing our own country with our word not being kept. Slavery is extremely dehumanizing, treating a certain group as a minority. This affects people mentally, physically, and ultimately it causes more problems with society. Along with slavery contradicting the principles of liberty and equality, it goes the Declaration of Independence stating that "all men are created equal." Is this honestly helping out the nation, or is this a selfish act in which people believe is an extreme benefit? A slave is someone who is physically forced to participate in a certain action. Someone who isn't supposed to have any say or resistance while dealing with the "said superior." This does nothing but tear apart the North and the South. If you believe that slavery is beneficial, read through this thoroughly and try to understand a different point of view. Slaves that are being held captive deserve rights, a say, and freedom, which is what they need. It is unconstitutional, dehumanizing, and traumatizing. If this continues, America will fall apart.

Genuinely,
London Merriweather]]> 2022-04-21 16:08:03 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2152301505 Madison S. https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2152590230 To whom it may concern,

Slavery directly contradicts the American principles of liberty and equality. Allowing slavery is going against the Declaration of Independence. How can you say one thing but do another? Slaves were not allowed to be to read or write; they were forced to labor in the hot sun til they nearly died. Equality should be for everybody not just people of one race. Allowing such inhumane things to go on in America is not setting the right of what we want to represent.

Sincerely,
Madison

]]> 2022-04-21 19:31:25 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2152590230 Deglan P. https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2156858070 Dear sir,

Slavery directly contradicts the American principles of liberty and equality. The principles say that every man has the freedom of speech, but african americans do not. They supposably are treated kindly, but they have scars to prove otherwise. Then they are traded like horses and cattle. No human deserves to be treated like that from birth.
Sincerely,
Deglan Picha]]> 2022-04-25 16:06:56 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2156858070 Elly Otieno https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2157150670 To whom it may concern,

Slavery directly contradicts the American principles of liberty and equality. Letting slavery slip by is against the Declaration of Independence. You say that all men are made equally, but slaves are men and women and children as well. Why are they not equal? Equality should be like it's definition, "the state of being equal, especially in status, rights, and opportunities." Instead only a certain group of people are equal while others are looked down upon. America is not another country that supports downing the oppressed, we support freedom and equality.

Sincerely,
Elly Otieno]]> 2022-04-25 18:39:02 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2157150670 Noah Rolfe https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2157176520 To whom it may concern,
Slavery is a wedge that is going to divide the nation. The process has already begun, as there are many processes that aren't directly protected by the law. Slaves are treated terribly nationwide. Slaves are claimed to be well fed and treated well when this isn't even close to true. In the south, people are allowed to take matters into their own hands. Lynchings are extremely common, and many slaves are killed. Also, slavery splits up entire families. Families can be sold away from each other, with no remorse what so ever. If you end this, it may be unconstitutional, but you will be a hero for years to come. If you do not, you will be known as the monster who doesn't care for all humans. Your choice.

Sincerely,
Noah Rolfe]]> 2022-04-25 18:54:42 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2157176520 Lawson Beaupre https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2157220607 Dear editor,

It is of my opinion that slavery goes against the honest religious benedictions of this good, united states of America. God says that all men are created equal, and to treat our neighbors as we would want to be treated. From what I have seen, this is clearly against the values of slavery. How can we say that our nation is under God when we break his word so blatantly and so wrongly? Enslaving a man for the color of his skin isn't treating him equally. And I know no one else would want to be treated how slavery treats them. We are all children of God, so we should be treating each other like it.

With Reguards,
Lawson Beau[re]]> 2022-04-25 19:24:36 UTC https://padlet.com/terlandson/dunpygdmstlfeh0w/wish/2157220607