Abolitionist Movement (1829-1850)

Study Notes

An abolitionist is someone who wants to eliminate a practice, such as slavery or capital punishment.
The most significant abolitionist movement in American history occurred from 1829-1850.
Abolitionists believed slavery was disgraceful and weakened the United States.
They petitioned Congress, sought political office, and distributed literature to show the South the wrongs of slavery.
The movement was influenced by Great Britain's abolition of slavery.
Opposition to the slave trade existed as early as the 16th century.
The American Colonization Society, formed in 1816, aimed to free slaves and return them to Africa, leading to conflict between pro- and anti-slavery groups.
The abolitionist movement contributed to the Civil War and the extension of voting rights to Black men.
The Civil War was caused by a power struggle between the North and South.
President Lincoln called for the freeing of slaves in rebelling areas.
Abolitionists included former slaves, former slave owners, Quakers, and Baptists.
The Second Great Awakening, a religious movement, influenced abolitionism.
Many abolitionists were women who became influential in the women's rights movement.

In 1829, Walker wrote a pamphlet denouncing slavery and encouraging slaves to fight for their freedom.
He wanted to instill pride in Black people and give them hope.
Walker's pamphlet inspired resistance among Southern slaves.
Slave owners were angered by his influence and sought his death.
He refused to flee to Canada despite the danger.
Walker quote: "America is more our country than it is the whites...The greatest riches in all America have arisen from our blood and tears."

Garrison began publishing an abolitionist paper called 'The Liberator' in 1830.
He helped New England form the New England Anti-Slavery Society.
Garrison criticized the Constitution for being pro-slavery.
Garrison quote: "Be faithful, be vigilant, be untiring in your efforts to break every yoke, and let the oppressed go free."

Douglass escaped slavery and became an influential activist, writer, and speaker.
He taught himself to read and write and helped other slaves do the same.
Douglass urged President Lincoln to abolish slavery.
Douglass quote: "Why am I called upon to speak here today? What have I, or those I represent, to do with your national independence? Are the great principles of political freedom and of natural justice embodied in that Declaration of Independence extended to us?"

Garnet advocated for a militant approach to ending slavery.
He traveled around England, speaking against slavery and supporting Black people's freedom.
Garnet quote from his 'Call to Rebellion' speech in 1843: "Let every slave throughout the land do this, and the days of slavery are numbered."

Stowe wrote 'Uncle Tom's Cabin,' a novel exposing the evils of slavery.
She gathered firsthand accounts from slaves about their mistreatment.
Her book angered the South, which defended slavery.
Stowe quote: "The longest way must have its close - the gloomiest night will wear on to a morning."

Truth helped slaves escape via the Underground Railroad.
She encouraged Black people to be hardworking and valuable to avoid exploitation.
Truth was a writer and public speaker who advocated for freedom.
Truth quote: "Ain't I a Woman," delivered at a Women's Rights Convention in 1851.