During his nine month tour of America, De Tocqueville analyzed the virtue of honor and how it strengthens a democratic society. He observed, “honor…rules the will more than belief….” It towers over the mortal human, infusing the spirit with energy and purpose. He reminds us that all people are united by their quest for honor: “The human race feels permanent and general needs that have given birth to moral laws; all men have naturally attached in all places and all times the ideas of blame and of shame to the nonobservance of them.” The pursuit for honor evolves, but it remains a potent force which beckons constantly to all people as they strive “to do good.”

Focusing his attention on honor in the antebellum South during his 1831 visit, De Tocqueville attempts to dissect honor in the relationship between slave owners and enslaved people. Tensions and pressures are spewing worth as ethnic groups interact. He tells us, “to debauch a girl of color hardly harms the reputation of an American; to marry her dishonors him.” Omitted, unfortunately, is concern for the debauched female’s predicament but clearly defined is the preservation of the southern elite’s position of personal honor. His honor must always be maintained.

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