To Kill a Mockingbird

Chapter 9 Question

When Attitcus speaks of defending Tom Robinson, he says, "Simply because we were licked a hundred years before we started is no reason for us not to try to win." To what is Attitcus referring? Why would it be worthwhile to fight a battle that you know you're going to lose?

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Atticus is referring to racism, something that has permeated the town for more than one-hundred years. He knows he won't win the trial and defends Tom Robinson because it's the right thing to do. It doesn't matter to him that historically, racism has always prevailed. This trial gives Atticus a platform to change, even if it's just a small change.

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To Kill a Mockingbird

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