
The Great Abolitionist
Charles Sumner and the Fight for a More Perfect Union
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Narrated by:
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Jonathan Yen
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By:
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Stephen Puleo
About this listen
In the tempestuous mid-nineteenth century, as slavery consumed Congressional debate and America careened toward civil war and split apart-when the very future of the nation hung in the balance-Charles Sumner's voice rang strongest, bravest, and most unwavering. Where others preached compromise and moderation, he denounced slavery's evils to all who would listen and demanded that it be wiped out of existence.
Before and during the Civil War, at great personal sacrifice, Sumner was the conscience of the North and the most influential politician fighting for abolition. Through the force of his words and his will, he moved America toward the twin goals of abolitionism and equal rights, which he fought for literally until the day he died. He laid the cornerstone arguments that civil rights advocates would build upon over the next century as the country strove to achieve equality among the races.
The Great Abolitionist is the first major biography of Charles Sumner to be published in over fifty years. Acclaimed historian Stephen Puleo relates the story of one of the most influential non-presidents in American history with evocative and accessible prose, transporting listeners back to an era when our leaders exhibited true courage and authenticity in the face of unprecedented challenges.
©2024 Stephen Puleo (P)2024 TantorListeners also enjoyed...
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What listeners say about The Great Abolitionist
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- Cedric R. Ross
- 11-25-24
A long overdue biography
There was a time when I would not have given a second thought about the likes of Charles Sumner, but the years have given way to just enough wisdom to consider why I had always heard or read the name without much backstory. There he was when I was learning about Lincoln and Douglass.
This book was important to me.
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- Annubis
- 10-06-24
The details are astonishing!
Love this book! It’s required reading in my family now. Next Juneteenth I will present a short lesson on Charles Sumner.
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- Silly Mimi
- 07-23-24
Massachusetts unknown history....
I have read most of Stephen Puleo's books and have always learned so much. This one, in particular. is about the MA. Senator who has received little or no recognition in his own state. I strongly advise MA citizens to read and learn about this dedicated man.
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- Susan
- 03-29-25
The heart of Charles Sumner
Charles Sumner followed his heart and was courageous in never giving up the basic principles that all humans are equal. Much ground has been attained but we still fight that battle today. This book was written with such depth and gave life to our forefathers.
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