In its most straightforward interpretation, the statement suggests that the idea of slavery being widespread or accepted as a dominant social structure is absurd. This assertion is based on the reality that there are only two states where slaves outnumber free people, and even within these places, those who own slaves make up an extremely small percentage of the population.
The deeper meaning behind this quote lies in its critique of how power dynamics function within societies where slavery exists. It challenges the notion that a minority group can exert significant control over society by owning slaves when they themselves are vastly outnumbered. This observation highlights the imbalance and inherent instability of systems reliant on slavery, suggesting that such structures cannot truly reflect the will or majority sentiment of a populace. The quote also underscores how the concept of power is complex and often does not align with numerical superiority; instead, it shows how political and economic leverage can be wielded by even small groups to maintain control over larger populations.
William H. Seward was an influential American statesman who served as Secretary of State under Abraham Lincoln and Andrew Johnson. He was a strong advocate for the abolition of slavery and played a significant role in advancing the cause of civil rights during his time. His statement reflects his broader views on the nature of power, democracy, and social justice, highlighting the inconsistencies between political rhetoric and actual societal conditions.
