Read the following excerpt from Dred Scott v. Sandford: “It is difficult at this day to realize the state of public opinion in relation to that unfortunate race which prevailed in the civilized and enlightened portions of the world at the time of the Declaration of Independence, and when the Constitution of the United States was framed and adopted…” Which statement best summarizes Justice Taney’s opinion? A. The framers were the most honorable men for the job, and there was none better. B. The men who wrote the Constitution understood that enslaved persons would not be considered citizens. C. The men who wrote the Constitution had a great understanding of the language they used. D. The men who wrote the Constitution believed that African Americans should be enslaved.
Read the following excerpt from Dred Scott v. Sandford
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The best answer is B. The men who wrote the Constitution understood that enslaved persons would not be considered citizens.
Explanation: Justice Taney’s statement reflects the prevailing attitudes toward race during the time the Constitution was created. He implies that the framers of the Constitution did not intend for enslaved individuals to be recognized as citizens, highlighting the historical context in which they operated and their views on race and citizenship.