Meaning: The quote by William Seward, a prominent American statesman, addresses the issue of slavery in the United States and seeks to undermine the notion that the institution of slavery is sustainable or justifiable. Seward, who was known for his staunch opposition to slavery, employs a logical argument to challenge the perceived prevalence and dominance of slavery in the country. By highlighting the numerical minority of slaveholders in each state, he aims to demonstrate the inherent weakness and unsustainability of the institution of slavery.

In the quote, Seward first dismisses the claim of slavery as an absurdity, suggesting that it can be easily refuted or discredited. He then presents a statistical analysis by stating that there are only two states in which slaves are a majority, implying that the majority of states do not have a slave majority. Additionally, he asserts that in no state are slaveholders anything but a very disproportionate minority, emphasizing the numerical disparity between slaveholders and the rest of the population.

Seward's argument carries significant historical and political weight, as it reflects the growing anti-slavery sentiment that was prevalent in the United States during the 19th century. As a key figure in the Republican Party and an advocate for the abolition of slavery, Seward's words were part of a broader movement that sought to challenge the institution of slavery and ultimately bring about its demise.

The quote also sheds light on the demographics of slavery in the United States, highlighting the fact that the majority of states did not have a slave majority and that slaveholders were a minority even in states where slavery was prevalent. This perspective challenges the perception of slavery as a deeply entrenched and dominant institution, instead portraying it as a system upheld by a minority of individuals.

Seward's argument can be seen as an early example of using statistical and demographic analysis to undermine the legitimacy of an oppressive system. By emphasizing the numerical minority of slaveholders, he effectively questions the sustainability and moral legitimacy of slavery. This approach aligns with the broader anti-slavery movement's efforts to delegitimize and dismantle the institution of slavery through moral, political, and intellectual means.

Furthermore, the quote reflects the broader debate and discourse surrounding slavery in the United States at the time. It underscores the fact that the issue of slavery was not just a moral or ethical question, but also a matter of demographics, power dynamics, and political representation. By framing the debate in terms of numerical minority and majority, Seward sought to challenge the perceived dominance of slaveholders and shift the narrative surrounding the institution of slavery.

In conclusion, William Seward's quote offers a compelling and thought-provoking perspective on the institution of slavery in the United States. By employing a logical argument and emphasizing the numerical minority of slaveholders, Seward sought to undermine the perceived dominance and sustainability of slavery. His words reflect the broader anti-slavery sentiment of the time and contribute to the ongoing discourse and debate that ultimately led to the abolition of slavery in the United States.