The Works of John Greenleaf Whittier, Volume VII, Complete The Conflict with Slavery, Politics and Reform, the Inner Life, and Criticism

"The Works of John Greenleaf Whittier, Volume VII, Complete" by John Greenleaf Whittier is a collection of writings exploring significant social issues of the 1800s, focusing on the fight against slavery, politics, and the need for reform. Penned as the movement to end slavery grew stronger, this collection highlights ethical concerns about slavery in America, showing the increasing conflict before the Civil War. The book starts with a strong argument against slavery in an essay called "Justice and Expediency". Whittier points out society's failure to deal with the wrongs of slavery, criticizing those who sympathize but do nothing. He argues passionately that it's not enough to just say slavery is wrong if there are no real actions to end it. By using religious and moral ideas, he asks readers to think about the moral problems with slavery, pushing for immediate abolition instead of gradual change; opening the door to deeper discussions about human rights, fairness, and what people and society should do to fight oppression.