"We of the South will not, cannot, surrender our institutions. To maintain the existing relations between the two races, inhabit
ing that section of the Union, is indispensable to the peace and happiness of both. …There is and always has been in an advanced stage of wealth and civilization, a conflict between labor and capital. The condition of society in the South exempts us from the disorders and dangers resulting from this conflict; and which explains why it is that the political condition of the slaveholding States has been so much more stable and quiet than that of the North." - Excerpt from John C. Calhoun’s speech “Slavery is a positive good,” February 6, 1837
Which statement BEST describes Calhoun's justification of slavery?
A) Slavery is necessary in the South because slaves are not capable of self-government.
B) Slavery is necessary in the South and without it there would be more labor conflicts.
C) Slavery is necessary in the South and has made the South much wealthier that the North.
D) Slavery is necessary in the South because the North is also dependent on this forced labor system.
