Charles Sumner: his complete works, volume 15 (of 20)

In this volume, listeners travel to the bustling Senate chambers of 1867, where a towering statesman delivers a series of speeches that shaped a nation in transition. The collection opens with the dramatic announcement of the treaty that would bring Russian America into the United States, capturing the urgency and intrigue of that historic night. From there, Sumner’s oratory moves through debates on presidential power, congressional procedure, and the delicate art of diplomatic mediation.

The heart of the book lies in Sumner’s passionate advocacy for equal rights. He argues forcefully for universal suffrage, the removal of racial language from naturalization laws, and the establishment of public schools without color distinctions. His resolutions on homesteads for freedmen and the opening of government offices to Black citizens reveal a relentless commitment to Reconstruction’s promises.

Interwoven with these domestic battles are Sumner’s reflections on foreign affairs—from the Alaska purchase to appeals on behalf of Crete—showcasing a mind that linked national expansion with moral responsibility. Listeners will hear a blend of legal precision, moral fervor, and the steady rhythm of a legislator determined to watch the President and protect the Republic.