I was for it, before I was against it

It has been stated over and over, that a person campaigning for POTUS that is successful, gets a whole different perspective of things once he or she takes office. And really, I do not know that there is any conflict here. Lincoln is saying we have the right to replace a government (1848 statement) that is oppressive and denies basic human rights. In 1860, the United States (North) was not denying the citizens of the South human rights or being oppressive, in fact, were trying to prevent it.

IMO, regardless of all the criticism, Lincoln was a man used mightily by the Lord. When I went to tour his Illinois buildings in Springfield, I saw numerous editorial cartoons demonizing him. With the garbage we have elected President since Reagan, how dare anyone criticize this man.

I noticed your quote by James Madison. My wife and I have also visited his home in Virginia. I stood in the room where James Madison put together the Constitution. What a brilliant mind. His life personally was sort of sad, mainly because of his step son's endless spending on parties. One of the most amazing things I found about the man was his correspondence with Presidents Jefferson and Monroe, and all three of their brilliance in agriculture.

President Madison had meetings at his house with upcoming politicians and leaders, discussing theories of government and human rights until the night before he died. These are the kind of places we go on vacation aside from national and state parks.

 

It is a matter of degree. It was not the norm in the North. By the way, you have come up with some really good threads as of late.