Stumps

Close to election time, we have the chance to hear the candidates for office speak, or “stump,” in nearby towns, to give their stance on issues and improvements that they seek, to promise they will strengthen all that’s weak. The term “stump speech” dates back two hundred years, when it was not used figuratively; and those of the American Frontier who ran for office stood, for all to see, on tree stumps while they campaigned movingly. All-day affairs complete with food and beer, these rural fetes were rollicking and loud. The speakers then (as now) tried hard to steer the votes their way and captivate the crowd. By hecklers’ jeers, the brave ones were not cowed. With jokes and boasts, some livened every speech. Sharp jabs at rivals filled the country air. As time progressed, some speakers chose to reach the crowd, not from a tree stump—but a chair or barrel. Such scenarios weren’t rare. Historical accounts of stumping state the names of stand-out speakers in that day. Three skilled men who excelled in a debate— Abe Lincoln, Stephen Douglas, Henry Clay— were stumpers whose wise words held unique sway. Today some folks flock to the county fair, not just for entertainment but to see the candidates debating with great flair, expounding on the facts; but they won’t be atop tree stumps to shout, “Please vote for me!” February 1, 2022 entered in Emile Pinet's Quintain (English) Contest