Question

When atticus speaks of defending tom robinson, he says, "simply because we were licked a hundred years before we started is no reason for us not to try to win." to what is atticus referring? why would it be worthwhile to fight a battle that you know you're going to lose?

Answer 1

Answer: Simply because he believes that someone has to fight for Tom, and no one else would do it.

Explanation:

Atticus was not only defending Tom Robinson in the case, but also against all the racist people who believed he was guilty just because he had coloured skin. Atticus was trying to show her daughter that some causes, though lost, should be defended.