We should compare the lives lost in this failed attack to the lives that were lost in the continuing practice of slavery. Yes it was illegal and disruptive, but

We should compare the lives lost in this failed attack to the lives that were lost in the continuing practice of slavery. Yes it was illegal and disruptive, but the status quo, while legal and banal, resulted in the death of slaves at a much higher rate. And, of course compared to the civil war, the toll was miniscule.