This classic work sheds light on one of the most turbulent periods in American history, framing the abolition of slavery within the constitutional powers of the government—specifically, its “war power.” Written by William Lloyd Garrison, one of the foremost leaders of the abolitionist movement, the book offers an in-depth analysis of how the U.S. government’s extraordinary powers during wartime were leveraged to confront and dismantle the institution of slavery.
Originally published in 1862, this text draws on the speeches and legal interpretations of key political figures of the time, such as John Quincy Adams and Charles Sumner. It explains how the legal and constitutional framework of war created the conditions for the eradication of slavery, transforming the Civil War from a political conflict into a moral revolution.
Republished in 2025 by Atrisuha Yayınları, this powerful work remains an essential resource for readers interested in history, law, political science, and human rights.