William Harper's rationalization for the existence of slavery was ... that slavery was a more humane and successful system than the economic system of the North. Slaves were better off than the poor of the industrial North ... that slavery was an improvement over living in Africa, a country of "savage despotism." America was seen as a preferred environment, being an "enlightened Christian" country. He stated, "in a word, our slaves are cheerful, contented, and happy" ... that the social order of the South and also the progress of civilization were both based on slavery. He believed that slavery created leisure time for a few who could then work in the arts and other areas to improve the culture of the nation.

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Litzy Fleming

1 February, 15:50

William Harper's rationalization for the existence of slavery was ... that slavery was a more humane and successful system than the economic system of the North. Slaves were better off than the poor of the industrial North ... that slavery was an improvement over living in Africa, a country of "savage despotism." America was seen as a preferred environment, being an "enlightened Christian" country. He stated, "in a word, our slaves are cheerful, contented, and happy" ... that the social order of the South and also the progress of civilization were both based on slavery. He believed that slavery created leisure time for a few who could then work in the arts and other areas to improve the culture of the nation.

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Bailey Bolton · Answer 1

TrueHe is best recalled as a leading proponent of the notion that slavery was not merely a necessary evil, but a positive social good. He posited in his memoir, Memoir on Slavery, first given as a lecture in 1838, that the institution of slavery was better than the economic dilapidation of the North.