Introduction

Justice Thomas Ruffin gave one of the most controversial rulings in North Carolina history in State v. Mann. Ruffin stated in his opinion that, “The power of the master must be absolute, to render submission of the slave perfect” This ruling lifted any restrictions on a slaveowner’s treatment of his slaves. Upon looking at Thomas Ruffin’s failure to follow precedent, his personal activity in the institution of slavery, and his other decisions, it becomes apparent that Justice Ruffin was actively protecting slavery in his decision in State v. Mann.