Butler, George B. (1809-1886) The Conscription Act: a Series of Articles Communicated to the Journal of Commerce
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC01265.03 Author/Creator: Butler, George B. (1809-1886) Place Written: New York, New York Type: Pamphlet Date: circa 1863 Pagination: 22 p. ; 22 x 14 cm. Order a Copy
Pamphlet No. 40 in a series published by the Loyal Publication Society of New York. Printed by W. C. Bryant & Co. The essays, numbered 1, 2, and 3, were published on November 18th, 21st, and 24th respectively.
Written in response to the decision made by the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania declaring the Conscription Act unconstitutional. Butler argues against the decision. He states that contrary to popular belief, the framers of the Constitution were well aware of the historical use of conscription. Butler supports this claim by providing a brief history of the use of conscription in ancient Rome and by modern nations. In the final essay, Butler draws a comparison of the constitutional powers granted to Congress and the states, concerning militias. Congress has the power to discipline, organize, and arm militias while states can train militias and appoint generals.
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