How we cite our quotes: Chapter.Paragraph
Quote #4
It was a grand opportunity for the low whites, who had no negroes of their own to scourge. They exulted in such a chance to exercise a little brief authority, and show their subservience to the slaveholders; not reflecting that the power which trampled on the colored people also kept themselves in poverty, ignorance, and moral degradation. (12.4)
Here's an example of voting against your interests: poor whites were totally oppressed but still taught that they were superior to black people. In reality, poor slaves and poor whites had a great deal in common, since wealthy white landowners stomped on them both.