Actually, I believe this ordinance applied only to the new territories north of the Ohio, and of course the Northwest Ordinance a few years later did abolish slavery in this area. So I fail to see how the failure of this provision made a bit of difference.
Obviously, Congress under the Articles of Confederation had no authority to make laws regarding slavery inside a State.
In the Declaration Tom put in a clause blaming the British for slavery, as if it had been forced on America. It was removed in committee, but if not there is zero doubt Congress as a body would have approved it.
How were the middle and northern state gentlemen you reference parasites? In what way were they living at ease by the forcible exploitation of others?
John Adams was an attorney. Benjamin Franklin was a wealthy retired printer and businessman. Livingston and Sherman were lawyers and politicians.
“Actually, I believe this ordinance applied only to the new territories north of the Ohio, and of course the Northwest Ordinance a few years later did abolish slavery in this area. So I fail to see how the failure of this provision made a bit of difference.”
Your point about failure was irrelevant. The point was that the “parasite” Jefferson was attempting to abolish that which you insinuate he was consuming. It was proof of the misdirection (and canard) of your assertion.
“How were the middle and northern state gentlemen you reference parasites?”
If you read back, I did not reference any “middle state” people as parasites. That was your accusation of Jefferson.
“In what way were they living at ease by the forcible exploitation of others?”
Well, let's see. Over 200 distilleries in those states converting molasses to rum. Dozens of shipbuilders, riggers, docks, Captains and sailors....all involved in the triangle trade....you remember that, don't you?
Oh, and don't forget the insurance agents necessary for the business, as well as the bankers, lawyers, and their politicians.
They sailed to Africa to trade their rum and guns for slaves, slaves for molasses in the Caribbean, and back to Rhode Island, Newport, New York, and Philadelphia to drop off the booty from their trade in humans.
“John Adams was an attorney. Benjamin Franklin was a wealthy retired printer and businessman. Livingston and Sherman were lawyers and politicians.”
Yes, and they voted against making the trade in slaves illegal.
Ever wonder why? (Back up 4 paragraphs and see).