December 24, 1856
The National Intelligencer
Washington, D.C.
Joseph Gales and William Seaton, publishers
Descriptive Detail
This document is a letter written by Montgomery Blair to The National Intelligencer, dated December 24, 1856. The National Intelligencer was published in Washington, D.C., from 1813 until 1869. Joseph Gales and William Seaton were the publishers. In the early days, the newspaper served as the official record of the government. In time, Gales and Seaton began compiling floor debates; this eventually led to the establishment of the publication known as the Congressional Record.
Local Historical Connections
In his letter, Blair summarizes the issues involved in the Dred Scott case and explains his reasons for agreeing to represent the enslaved African in his quest for freedom. At the same time, Blair goes beyond the simple arguments, treating the reader to his very thoughtful analysis of why an attorney should represent individuals, even in controversial situations. One interesting point is that the Dred Scott case was one of about three hundred freedom cases tried in St. Louis prior to the Civil War. Some sixty percent of enslaved Africans won their freedom from all white juries. The Dred Scott case was the only one of these that reached the U. S. Supreme Court.
National Historical Connections
Blair’s discussion of the duties of an attorney goes beyond 1856 anticipating changes in the twentieth century. In many ways, he lays the foundation for contemporary institutions such as public defenders and legal aid.
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Montgomery Blair’s Letter to the National Intelligencer