The Relations of the Federal Government to Slavery Delivered at Fort Wayne, Ind., October 30th 1860

"The Relations of the Federal Government to Slavery" by Joseph K. Edgerton is a political and historical exploration delivered during the intense 1860 Presidential campaign. The book examines the complicated ties between the Federal government and slavery, spotlighting the constitutional interpretations and political forces shaping 19th-century America. Edgerton, positioning himself as a concerned citizen, reflects on his political past and the Whig party’s history during a time of upheaval. He contemplates the nation's progress, underscoring the principles on which it was built, and entreats listeners to re-evaluate their stances on slavery in order to maintain unity. While criticizing the extreme views of both the North and South, he champions compromise as vital for tackling the divisive issue while reaffirming dedication to the Constitution's principles, stressing the necessity of unity amidst widespread sectional tensions.