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Despite the sensational nature of these events, however, they are merely symbolic of Sumner's larger career. He should be remembered instead as a stern voice of conscience who constantly reminded nineteenth-century Americans of what many preferred to ignore: that slavery and racial injustice are immoral. Sumner worked selflessly with others to create a political system that would address these issues. He first led a revolt against the Whigs when they failed to respond and then helped to form the new Free Soil and Republican parties, all the time forcing them to focus on slavery-related issues before the Civil War and civil rights after it. This brief biography of Sumner, moreover, attempts to portray the senator's accomplishments and shortcomings within the context of issues that remain relevant to this day."
