Final answer:
Luther Martin from Maryland proposed a clause at the Philadelphia Convention to allow a prohibition or tax on the importation of slaves to balance economic interests, moral considerations, and political power between the northern and southern states. Despite many delegates being opposed to the institution of slavery, economic dependence on it in southern states and the potential for disunion limited actions against it. The debates over slavery reflected deep ideological and moral conflicts regarding liberty, equality, and the future of the United States.
Step-by-step explanation:
Luther Martin from Maryland proposed a clause to allow a prohibition or tax on the importation of slaves at the Philadelphia Convention due to economic and political tensions surrounding slavery. Southern states like South Carolina indicated they would depart from the convention if abolition were pursued, as it would significantly harm their economies, which were heavily reliant on slave labor. Despite disapproval of slavery by many delegates, the economic ramifications and the South's strong stance prevented a serious effort to abolish slavery at the convention. Additionally, the preservation of the fragile national unity during the forming of the new government weighed heavily on decision-making processes.
Beyond economic concerns, a moral and ideological struggle was evident. Anti-slavery sentiments grew amongst colonists, and individuals like James Otis and the Quakers condemned slavery as immoral and a grotesque contradiction to the pursuit of liberty and independence. Rufus King highlighted the morality issue during congressional debates, and while others framed slavery as a necessary evil, pro-slavery advocates also manufactured arguments that portrayed slavery as a positive good. The debate on slavery was not solely on practical grounds but on moral and ideological terms as well, influencing the political landscape significantly.
The sectional balance of power was another critical concern. With the introduction of the Tallmadge Amendment, the fear was that it would set a precedent for gradually abolishing slavery throughout the Union, which would inevitably reduce the political power of the southern states. The debate surrounding this amendment exemplifies how slavery was integrally connected to the political power structures in the young nation.