“If there ever are great revolutions there, they will be caused by the presence of the blacks upon American soil. That is to say, it will not be the equality of social conditions but rather their inequality which may give rise thereto.”

Tocqueville understood in many ways the American foundation and love of individual sovereignty. Though the war between the states had politically nothing to do with slavery, it was the large commercial concerns of the north that inflamed the Christian hearts to action against the inequality and moral degradation that is slavery. The commercial concerns achieved their anti- states / individual rights and financial goals while the common man erased the inequality blight / moral degradation through a revolutionary type war.

It wasn't 'the Christians' that freed the slaves, Mike -- unless of course the entire south was not Christian. Individuals fighting for the rights of ALL individuals led the cause underground way before slavery became a bargaining chip in the War of Northern Agression. But John Adams warned his fellows that by removing the anti-slavery clause in the Declaration of Indpendence the hypocrisy would have to be dealt with by posterity. It seemed to be evident to everyone but the slave owners (predominantly in the south).

Archer, you're absolutely right, I was trying to say that the northern populas wasn't really interested in waring with the South until the powerful commercial interests feared for their profit margins and loss of expanding power. Subsequently, big money, using media as well as other means to inspire (by shame or inspiration, take you pick) church goers (otherwise apathetic), to do their Christian duty and free the oppressed secured their financial and political goals

Oh, and I thought he was just talking about Rap music.