Home > American Civil War > Charles Sumner Biography

Born January 6, 1811
Boston, Massachusetts
Died March 11, 1874
Washington, D.C.

Republican senator from Massachusetts

Abolitionist and leader in the impeachment trial
of President Andrew Johnson

"Whatever apologies may be offered for the toleration of slavery in the States, none can be offered for its extension into Territories where it does not exist."

Charles Sumner was one of America's most prominent political figures during the Civil War era. A dedicated abolitionist, he fought against laws that extended or protected the institution of slavery in any way. Sumner's views made him a hated man in the South, though. In 1856, this hatred became so intense that a Southern congressman viciously attacked him on the floor of the Senate. This physical assault immediately became famous throughout the North as a symbol of Southern wickedness. Sumner spent the...