Charles Sumner: his complete works, volume 16 (of 20)

The volume gathers speeches, letters, and legal opinions focused on Reconstruction-era politics and law, arguing for congressional protection of equal political and civil rights, enforcement of the Fourteenth Amendment, and restraints on executive authority during a presidential impeachment. It addresses Senate procedure and the responsibilities of senators in impeachment, the admission and eligibility of representatives from Southern and Black constituencies, financial reconstruction and public faith, international relations and copyright, and public memorials. Throughout the pieces the author blends legal reasoning, political advocacy, and moral appeals to republican government and human rights.