This Day in Republican History 1/9/06

January 9, 1890 Death of abolitionist and U.S. Rep. William Kelley (R-PA), outspoken advocate of equality for African-Americans An active member of the Republican Party, Kelley was elected to Congress in 1861 and remained there for twenty-nine years. Kelley became associated with the Radical Republicans, a group who were not only in favor of the abolition of slavery but believed that freed slaves should have complete equality with white citizens. The rhetoric hasn't changed at all since the mid-19th century. Republicans who fight for such things as an American's right to arm and defend himself or an unborn baby's right to live a full, rich life are still called "radicals."