"In the contest between the nation and slavery,our unfortunate people have sided,by instinct,with the former....We will work,pray,live,and,if need be,die for the Union,as cheerfully as ever a white patriot died for his country.The color of our skin does not lessen in the least degree,our love either for God or for the land of our birth.... We know the burdens of citizenship,and are ready to bear them.We know the duties of the good citizen,and are ready to perform them cheerfully,and would ask to be put in a position in which we can discharge them more effectually....
This is a democracy-a government of the people.It should aim to make every man,without regard to the color of his skin,the amount of his wealth,or the character of his religious faith,feel personally interested in its welfare.Every man who lives under the Government should feel that it is his property,his treasure,the bulwark and defence of himself and his family...."
Which of the following did the authors of the 1865 petition to the Union Convention of Tennessee use to justify black enfranchisement?
A) That free blacks paid taxes
B) That other countries' democracies allowed all men to vote
C) That to not allow black men to vote is to equate them with women
D) That blacks have proven themselves ready and willing to be active,participatory citizens

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The passage specifically mentions that black people are "ready to bear" and "perform" the duties of good citizenship, and that they should be put in a position to "discharge them more effectually." This demonstrates that they are capable of being active, participatory citizens and justifies their enfranchisement. The other choices mentioned are not referenced in the passage as justifications for black enfranchisement.

"In the Contest Between the Nation and Slavery,our Unfortunate People