Before there could start a general movement against American slavery there must needs be an American nation.

An American nation was, in the year 1787, in process of successful development.

With the adoption of the Constitution, the national principle entered on a period of marvelous expansion and activity.
Let it not, however, be hastily concluded that freedom meanwhile was in total eclipse, that the anti-slavery sentiment was absolutely without influence.

For it unquestionably inspired the Ordinance of 1787.

The Northwest Territory, out of which were subsequently organized the States of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, and Wisconsin, was thereby, forever secured to the Northern idea, and free labor.