A Defence of Virginia And Through Her, of the South, in Recent and Pending Contests Against the Sectional Party

"A Defence of Virginia" by Robert Lewis Dabney is a late 1800s defense of the Southern states, aimed at disputing the negative image put forth by anti-slavery groups after the Civil War. It argues that the basis of enslavement is both morally acceptable and historically sound. The book begins with the author explaining that he intends to protect Virginia from what he believes are false claims made by Northerners who opposed slavery. Dabney challenges the negative views targeted toward Southern slavery, saying that these views come from not understanding the past and human rights. He highlights the idea that while slavery existed in other places, the Southern states were wrongly criticized. Dabney makes it clear he will deeply examine the ethical and religious reasons behind slavery, focusing on the need to understand the past when discussing Virginia's role and the difficulties of slavery in America.