[DoodleDawg]

That quote is erroneously attributed to Stephens, but his speech was an extemporaneous stump speech with no written record.

Then how do you know he didn't say it? Or something to that effect?

[PeaRidge]

Those that use that quote to condemn Stephens have no proof.

[SoCal Pubbie]

It was widely reported at the time. Of course newspaper articles are no good. Unless they support the Neo-Confederate position.

https://www.loc.gov/resource/rbpe.24402000/?st=text