Dread Scott (Christian Inquirer)

Death of Dred Scott. – The name of Dred Scott is imperishable, for it is the title of a great step taken in behalf of American slavery, which will be followed by others, or else will have to be reversed by the slow but sure progress of free principles. But Dred Scott, the individual, the negro of African descent, and therefore not a citizen, is no more. He died at St. Louis on Friday last, at a very advanced age. Nearly all of his years were passed in obscurity, and his greatness was thrust upon him as the sands of life were fast running out. Ten years ago he brought the suite for his freedom, which was finally determined by the Supreme Court at Washington, at the December term of 1856. What the majority of the Judges decided, beyond that they had not jurisdiction of the case, in consequence of the decision of the Supreme Court of Missouri, has been variously and inconsistently interpreted. But the decision has gone into politics, and is destined to exert a powerful influence on the country, even if it is not made the basis, as it probably will be, of further judicial decisions. Thus the name of Dred Scott will be kept before the American people, and will doubtless figure on the pages of history to the end of time. – Boston Journal.