"The Destiny of America," by James M. Kimberlin

James Monroe Kimberlin prepared this oration, entitled “The Destiny of America," for the commencement ceremonies held June 26, 1851. Authoring an original speech was among the graduation requirements for Dickinson College seniors at that time. In discussing the future of the United States, Kimberlin noted that "our existence as a nation been endangered by [slavery]." "By some inglorious providence of God, slavery exists among us," Kimberlin explained. Transcript included.