Jerks in History

[Gene C]

(11-27-2013 12:25 PM)L Verge Wrote:  What makes Brooks worse than John Brown and Bleeding Kansas? Many abolitionists applauded his mass killings. and many influential Northerners gave financial aid to his decision to raid Harpers Ferry and incite a slave rebellion. Believe it or not, I despise what Brown did, but I understand his fanaticism given the circumstances of the 1850s -- just like I understand Preston Brooks taking his wrath out on one pompous abolitionist.

I don't believe Brooks was worse than Brown, Brooks didn't kill anyone. I agree Laurie, many approved Brown's actions and I would believe that many people in the north who might have been against slavery were appalled by Brown's actions in that what he did was too extreme. Right and wrong haven't changed that much over time and neither have our perceptions of right and wrong. There will always be people like John Brown who commit evil acts. People will still make excuses and justify wrong behavior if it is for a cause we feel is just. We will always struggle with the issue, when is it wrong to attack your enemy and when is it acceptable or even prudent to do so? It seems like the winner or survivor gets to decide that question. I choose to believe there will be a greater and final judge who gets to make the ultimate decision with ultimate consequences.