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Slave Narratives: A Folk History of Slavery in the United States from Interviews with Former Slaves, Volume XIV, South Carolina Narratives, Part 3

United States. Work Projects Administration

"Slave Narratives: A Folk History of Slavery in the United States from Interviews with Former Slaves" is a historical account compiled by the Federal Writers' Project during the late 1930s. This significant work offers an authentic glimpse into the lives and experiences of former enslaved individuals through their personal narratives. The narratives provide a vivid portrayal of both the hardships and moments of human connection that defined their lives before and after emancipation. The beginning of the text introduces a diverse group of informants, each reflecting on their past with varying degrees of nostalgia, pain, and pride. The interviews feature individuals like Adeline Jackson, who shares memories of her life on a plantation, including the warmth of community and the strict discipline enforced by their masters. Others, such as Cordelia Anderson Jackson and Fred James, recount their experiences during the Civil War and the transition to freedom, capturing the complexities of their emotions upon hearing about their liberation. Throughout these interviews, we are presented with rich storytelling that combines both personal memories and broader historical commentary, setting the stage for a deeper understanding of the impact of slavery in America. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Slave Narratives: A Folk History of Slavery in the United States from Interviews with Former Slaves, Volume I, Alabama Narratives

United States. Work Projects Administration

"Slave Narratives: A Folk History of Slavery in the United States from…," compiled by the Federal Writers’ Project, is a historical account prepared in the late 1930s. This work gathers first-hand accounts from former slaves in the United States, emphasizing their personal experiences and memories of life in bondage, particularly through interviews conducted in Alabama. The book provides a unique perspective on the complexities of slavery, featuring various narrators and their distinct stories, which reflect the spectrum of experiences among enslaved individuals. The opening of the narrative introduces several former slaves through a series of interviews, detailing their lives both before and after the Emancipation. Figures like Uncle Charlie Aarons recount their childhood memories of being sold, their experiences with masters, and the harsh realities of work and life on plantations. Other voices, like Aunt Molly Ammonds and Anthony Abercrombie, share glimpses of the community, traditions, and resilient spirits that characterized their lives. Each narrative snapshot portrays the personal history and emotions of individuals as they recount their struggles and survival during and after slavery, setting the stage for a profound reflection on a pivotal aspect of American history. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Slave Narratives: A Folk History of Slavery in the United States from Interviews with Former Slaves, Volume XVI, Texas Narratives, Part 4

United States. Work Projects Administration

"Slave Narratives: A Folk History of Slavery in the United States from Interviews with Former Slaves" is a historical account compiled by the Federal Writers' Project during the late 1930s. This work features firsthand accounts of various individuals who were formerly enslaved, providing a vital perspective on their experiences and memories of slavery. The narratives come from a diverse group of former slaves across different states, and they reveal insights into their lives before, during, and after the Civil War. The opening of the work sets the stage for a collection of personal stories, starting with detailed introductions of informants such as Mazique Sanco, who reminisces about his life in South Carolina and later experiences in the army and as a chef, and Clarissa Scales, who reflects on her childhood in Texas under the care of a kind master. The narratives begin to paint a complex picture of life in slavery, showcasing varied experiences and the impact of emancipation on former slaves as they navigate their newfound freedom. Each informant shares unique anecdotes that illustrate both the harsh realities of enslavement and the resilience of the human spirit, foreshadowing the intricate tapestry of personal histories that will unfold throughout the book. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Slave Narratives: A Folk History of Slavery in the United States from Interviews with Former Slaves, Volume XVI, Texas Narratives, Part 3

United States. Work Projects Administration

"Slave Narratives: A Folk History of Slavery in the United States" is a historical account produced by the Federal Writers’ Project during the late 1930s. This collection documents the voices of former slaves through interviews that recount their experiences and memories of slavery in America. The narratives reflect on various aspects of slave life and their perspectives on freedom, providing a vital firsthand account of this significant historical period. The opening of this work presents a rich tapestry of individual stories from several former slaves, such as Cinto Lewis and Hagar Lewis, who narrate their childhood experiences on plantations, the relationships they had with their masters, and their feelings on emancipation. Each narrative varies in detail, reflecting different regions and experiences, but all share common themes such as hardship, resilience, and the quest for a better life after slavery. The interviews not only illustrate the painful realities of enslavement but also capture moments of humanity, community, and the longing for freedom that define their lives before and after the Civil War. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Slave Narratives: A Folk History of Slavery in the United States from Interviews with Former Slaves, Volume X, Missouri Narratives

United States. Work Projects Administration

"Slave Narratives: A Folk History of Slavery in the United States" is a historical account produced by the Federal Writers’ Project and compiled through interviews conducted with former slaves in the late 1930s. This work aims to preserve the voices and experiences of those who lived through slavery, emphasizing their personal stories, struggles, and resilience. The narratives provide invaluable insights into the lives of African Americans before and after emancipation, illustrating the rich tapestry of their experiences. At the start of the volume, the narratives by individuals like James Monroe Abbot, Betty Abernathy, and Aunt Hannah Allen introduce readers to their pasts, recounting vivid memories of life as slaves in Missouri. Each participant shares their unique experiences, from the harsh realities of labor and punishment to moments of joy and community. Abbot recalls the oppressive conditions under his master and the relief felt when emancipation came, while Abernathy recounts her family's desperate attempts to escape the cruelty of slavery. These introductions set the tone for a deeply personal and poignant collection that seeks to honor the legacy of those who suffered under bondage. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Slave Narratives: A Folk History of Slavery in the United States from Interviews with Former Slaves, Volume XI, North Carolina Narratives, Part 2

United States. Work Projects Administration

"Slave Narratives: A Folk History of Slavery in the United States from Interviews with Former Slaves" is a historical account compiled by the Federal Writers' Project during the late 1930s. This collection comprises firsthand testimonies from former slaves, vividly recounting their experiences and memories from the antebellum period through the Reconstruction era. The narratives provide a rich, personal insight into the lives, struggles, and resilience of enslaved individuals across the southern United States. The opening portion of this work introduces several key informants who share their stories, such as John H. Jackson, Ben Johnson, and Isaac Johnson. These interviews capture their recollections of life under slavery, experiences during the Civil War, and their perspectives on freedom after emancipation. Uncle Jackson reminisces about his childhood, describing the relatives and skilled enslaved artisans he knew, while Uncle Ben recalls a painful moment of separation from his brother. Isaac shares details of his upbringing and the plantation system, illustrating a varied tapestry of life experiences amid older customs and changing societal conditions. The narratives combine personal anecdotes with broader historical context, highlighting not only the hardships but also the moments of joy and community shared among enslaved individuals. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Slave Narratives: A Folk History of Slavery in the United States from Interviews with Former Slaves, Volume XVI, Texas Narratives, Part 2

United States. Work Projects Administration

"Slave Narratives: A Folk History of Slavery in the United States" is a historical account compiled by the Federal Writers' Project during the late 1930s. This work provides firsthand accounts and interviews with former enslaved people, offering a unique insight into their experiences and the complexities of the institution of slavery in America. The narratives document the diverse backgrounds of the narrators and capture the cultural, social, and economic aspects of their lives before and after emancipation. The beginning of the book introduces the reader to various former slaves from Texas, sharing snippets of their lives through personal stories. One narrator, Willis Easter, recounts his early memories as a child slave and includes details about his family's cooking skills and beliefs in folklore, such as conjuring. Other accounts include Anderson and Minerva Edwards, who reflect on their experiences and the impact of the Civil War on their lives. These stories not only convey the hardships faced during their enslavement but also illustrate moments of resilience, community, and cultural traditions, setting a poignant tone for the narratives within the book. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Slave Narratives: A Folk History of Slavery in the United States from Interviews with Former Slaves, Volume XVI, Texas Narratives, Part 1

United States. Work Projects Administration

"Slave Narratives: A Folk History of Slavery in the United States" is a historical collection of firsthand accounts compiled by the Federal Writers' Project during the late 1930s. This work encompasses interviews with former slaves, illustrating their personal stories regarding life during and after slavery in the United States, particularly focusing on their experiences in Texas. The text reveals stories that highlight a range of experiences, from the harsh realities of slave life to moments of tenderness and community, shedding light on the complexities of their past. The opening of this collection introduces the reader to various individuals, beginning with Will Adams, who recounts his comparatively favorable experiences under his masters in Texas compared to others. He shares memories of a stable life, the kindness of the Cavin family, and the confusion surrounding emancipation. Alongside his narrative, William Adams discusses his quest for knowledge and experiences with belief in supernatural powers, acting as a reflection of the cultural heritage and resilience of African Americans. The essays build a vivid picture of the lives, struggles, and shifting dynamics of the individuals interviewed, weaving together personal history with broader themes of community, survival, and the impact of the Civil War on their lives. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Slave Narratives: A Folk History of Slavery in the United States from Interviews with Former Slaves, Volume XVII, Virginia Narratives

United States. Work Projects Administration

"Slave Narratives: A Folk History of Slavery in the United States from Interviews with Former Slaves" is a historical account documenting firsthand experiences of former slaves in the United States, compiled during the late 1930s. This collection provides a detailed insight into the lives, struggles, and resilience of enslaved individuals through their personal testimonies, notably from Virginia. The narratives not only highlight the harsh realities of slavery but also capture the culture, family relationships, and the sense of community among the enslaved. The opening of the book introduces several informants, primarily ex-slaves, sharing their memories of life before, during, and after the Civil War. For instance, we hear from Mrs. Fannie Berry, who reminisces about Nat Turner's Insurrection and the moments of fear and confusion that ensued among both slaves and masters. Other narratives describe moments of hardship, such as the cruelty of slave catchers, the limited but cherished personal autonomy, and the significance of religious gatherings, which served as an escape and source of hope. These accounts reveal a complex tapestry of human experience highlighting resilient spirits amidst oppressive circumstances, laying a foundation for understanding the broader historical context of slavery in America. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

An Appeal in Favor of that Class of Americans Called Africans

Lydia Maria Child

"An Appeal in Favor of that Class of Americans Called Africans" by Lydia Maria Child is a socio-political treatise written in the early 19th century. This work passionately advocates for the rights of African Americans while denouncing the institution of slavery and the injustices it engenders. Child aims to awaken readers to the moral imperative of abolishing slavery and to consider the plight of African Americans as deserving of empathy and justice. At the start of the text, Child appeals directly to her readers, urging them to engage with her arguments regardless of their personal biases against the subject. She references historical instances of the slave trade and provides a brief overview of its catastrophic effects on Africa and its peoples, emphasizing the brutal nature of slavery and the exploitative practices that have arisen from it. The opening portion serves as a call to conscience, aiming to confront readers with the moral decay represented by the institution of slavery and rally them towards advocating for human rights and dignity. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The Trial of Reuben Crandall, M.D. - Charged with Publishing and Circulating Seditious and Incendiary Papers, &c. in the District of Columbia, with the Intent of Exciting Servile Insurrection. Carefully Reported, and Compiled from the Written Statements o

Unknown

"The Trial of Reuben Crandall, M.D." by Unknown is a historical account written in the early 19th century. The book details the court trial of Dr. Crandall, who was charged with publishing and distributing seditious materials that incited insurrection among enslaved individuals and free colored people in the District of Columbia. The account explores the legal complexities surrounding the case and the broader implications regarding the rights and treatment of enslaved people in America at that time. The opening of the book sets the stage for a significant historical legal battle, highlighting that this was the first trial of its kind in the U.S. The trial lasted ten days, with both sides presenting extensive arguments on the legality of libelous content that advocated for abolition. As the prosecution and defense build their cases, we are introduced to key testimonies regarding Crandall’s character, his intent, and the nature of the incendiary texts he was accused of circulating, thus revealing both the tension of the era and the intricacies of the legal arguments that shaped the trial's outcome. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Slave Narratives: A Folk History of Slavery in the United States from Interviews with Former Slaves, Volume XIV, South Carolina Narratives, Part 4

United States. Work Projects Administration

"Slave Narratives: A Folk History of Slavery in the United States from Interviews with Former Slaves" is a historical account compiled by the Federal Writers' Project between the mid-1930s and late 1930s. This work consists of first-hand interviews with former slaves, capturing their personal experiences, stories, and reflections on their lives before, during, and after slavery. The collection serves as a vital record of the oral history and cultural heritage of African Americans, offering insight into their struggles, resilience, and everyday life. The opening of this compilation introduces various informants, detailing their backgrounds and memories associated with slavery and the Civil War. For instance, Mary Raines, a centenarian, shares poignant memories of her early life and the experiences of her family during the slavery era, encapsulating her perspective on the transition from servitude to freedom. Meanwhile, Frank Range recounts his brave efforts to save his master during the war, highlighting the complex relationships that existed between slaves and their owners. As the narratives unfold, they encompass various themes including hardship, resilience, and the pursuit of a better life, providing readers with firsthand accounts that humanize the historical context of slavery in America. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The Relations of the Federal Government to Slavery - Delivered at Fort Wayne, Ind., October 30th 1860

Joseph K. (Joseph Ketchum) Edgerton

"The Relations of the Federal Government to Slavery" by Joseph K. Edgerton is a historical account that was delivered as a speech in the context of the 1860 Presidential campaign. The work focuses on the complex relationship between the Federal government and the institution of slavery, exploring the constitutional standpoints and political dynamics influencing 19th-century America. The book likely aims to provide clarity and justification regarding the role of slavery within the framework of the United States Constitution, urging a spirit of compromise. At the start of the speech, Edgerton positions himself as an American citizen, discussing his early political affiliations and the history of the Whig party during a turbulent era. He reflects on the evolution of the United States, emphasizing the principles upon which the nation was founded and urging listeners to reconsider their views on slavery and its role in preserving the Union. He critiques the extreme opinions of both the North and South, advocating for a return to compromise as essential for addressing the divisive issue of slavery while reiterating a commitment to the values of the Constitution. The opening establishes the urgency of the topic during a pivotal moment in American history, highlighting the delicate balance required to maintain national unity amidst sectional tensions. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Resurrection

Robert Shea

"Resurrection" by Robert Shea is a science fiction short story written in the late 20th century. The narrative explores themes of life, death, and the implications of advanced medicine, particularly the ability to revive the dead and modify human existence through technology. It delves into a speculative future where humanity has developed profound medical capabilities that challenge the natural order. The story unfolds through a conversation between a man with Asiatic features, who has been brought back to life in a futuristic society, and a young girl intrigued by his experiences. He recounts how, in this new age, deceased individuals can be resurrected through an understanding of biological memory, allowing pieces of matter that once belonged to an organism to reconstruct the entire being. As they discuss his past as Genghis Khan, the man reflects on the challenges of adapting to a transformed world where every historical figure can potentially be revived, raising complex questions about identity, space, and the essence of life itself. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Slavery: What it was, what it has done, what it intends to do - Speech of Hon. Cydnor B. Tompkins, of Ohio

Cydnor Bailey Tompkins

"Slavery: What it was, what it has done, what it intends to do" by Tompkins is a historical speech delivered in the House of Representatives in the early 1860s. The book presents a compelling argument against the institution of slavery, discussing its moral, social, and political implications. As a work of historical significance, it reflects the intense debates occurring in pre-Civil War America, focusing specifically on the injustices and aggressions associated with slavery. In his speech, Tompkins articulates the founding fathers' anti-slavery sentiments, highlighting their opposition to the practice and presenting a series of historical resolutions that condemn slavery. He argues that slavery is not only a moral injustice but also detrimental to society, claiming that it creates a class of uneducated and impoverished free white laborers. Furthermore, he warns against the aggressive expansion of slavery into new territories, emphasizing the need to uphold the principles of liberty and justice established by the nation’s founders. Overall, Tompkins' address serves as both a critique of slavery's implications and a call to action for the defense of freedom in the United States. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The Right of American Slavery

T. W. (True Worthy) Hoit

"The Right of American Slavery" by T. W. Hoit is a controversial treatise advocating for the institution of slavery, published in the tumultuous period leading up to the American Civil War during the early 1860s. This work presents itself as a philosophical justification for slavery based on a belief in the inferiority of the African race compared to European Americans. The author argues that slavery is a moral and civil necessity, asserting that it serves the greater good of civilization by protecting and uplifting those he views as inherently barbaric. In this book, Hoit outlines his views on the nature of African people, asserting they are "barbarians" who are thus suited for slavery. He draws on historical and contemporary examples to argue that civilizations have a right and obligation to dominate and "civilize" those he perceives as less capable. Throughout the work, he dismisses emancipation, regarding it as a moral error with catastrophic potential, forecasting ruin should society abandon the institution of slavery. Overall, Hoit's arguments reflect a deeply entrenched racist ideology that seeks to rationalize and defend slavery while warning against the dangers of social and political equality with African Americans. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Slave Narratives: A Folk History of Slavery in the United States from Interviews with Former Slaves, Volume II, Arkansas Narratives, Part 4

United States. Work Projects Administration

"Slave Narratives: A Folk History of Slavery in the United States from Interviews with Former Slaves" is a historical account compiled by the Federal Writers' Project in the late 1930s. This work contains firsthand accounts from former slaves, predominantly from the Southern United States, and seeks to document their experiences and reflections on slavery and life after emancipation. The narratives were collected as part of a larger effort to preserve African American history and culture. The beginning of this collection introduces several former slaves, each sharing their life stories and memories from the time of slavery and the Civil War. Clarice Jackson recalls her life in Arkansas, expressing mixed feelings about her experiences during slavery and the changes she has seen in the younger generation. Israel Jackson shares harsh memories of his cruel master while also narrating his journey to freedom. Through their interviews, these individuals reflect on personal struggles with education, economic hardship, and familial relationships, offering a poignant glimpse into their resilience and faith despite the challenges they faced in both slavery and the post-war era. The opening portion sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the complexities of their lives, beliefs, and the legacy of slavery in America. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Behind the Scenes; or, Thirty years a slave, and Four Years in the White House

Elizabeth Keckley

"Behind the Scenes; or, Thirty Years a Slave, and Four Years in the White House" by Elizabeth Keckley is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. The narrative revolves around Keckley's life story, detailing her experiences as a former slave and her subsequent years of work as a modiste (dressmaker) and confidante for Mary Todd Lincoln, the wife of President Abraham Lincoln. This account provides insight into the complexities of slavery, the personal trials and tribulations Keckley faced, and her view of significant historical events during her time in the White House. The opening of the book reveals Elizabeth Keckley's reflections on her life as a slave in Virginia, describing her childhood, the separation from her family, and the cruel realities of her situation. She recalls pivotal moments that shaped her character, including the harsh treatment she endured and the love she had for her parents. Keckley articulates her journey to freedom, detailing her determination to escape the bonds of slavery and ultimately purchase her own freedom and that of her son. Through her candid narratives, Keckley sets the stage for her eventual connection with Mrs. Lincoln and her unique perspective on life in the White House as the Civil War unfolds. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The Negro and the Nation - A History of American Slavery and Enfranchisement

George Spring Merriam

"The Negro and the Nation" by George Spring Merriam is a historical account written in the early 20th century that examines the complex history of American slavery and the movement towards the emancipation and enfranchisement of enslaved people. The book likely delves into the various sociopolitical dynamics that influenced the institution of slavery, including the roles of key figures and events in American history. The opening of the book introduces readers to an anecdote involving an encounter between an English traveler and General George Washington, offering a perspective on Washington's views on slavery. Merriam establishes a foundation for understanding how slavery developed in America, tracing its roots from European colonization to the later struggles for rights and emancipation. The narrative emphasizes the contradiction between America's professed ideals of liberty and the realities of slavery, setting the stage for deeper analysis of the moral, economic, and political factors that perpetuated the institution. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Is Slavery Sanctioned by the Bible?

Isaac Allen

"Is Slavery Sanctioned by the Bible?" by Isaac Allen is a theological work written in the mid-19th century, during a time of significant national debate over slavery in the United States. This book examines biblical texts to determine whether the Bible condones the institution of slavery, addressing arguments from both proponents and opponents of slavery. The author delves into interpretations of the Old and New Testaments to argue that the biblical stance is not one of endorsement but rather one that opposes the practices associated with chattel slavery. In the book, Allen systematically analyzes various biblical passages, exploring terms related to slavery and servitude in both the Old Testament and the New Testament. He emphasizes the difference between ancient forms of labor and modern chattel slavery, arguing that the Bible promotes principles of freedom and equality rather than oppression. The author also critiques the justification for slavery based on biblical texts, asserting that passages often cited to support slavery are misinterpreted or taken out of context. Ultimately, Allen concludes that true biblical teachings advocate for liberty and human dignity, positioning his work as a moral and ethical critique of slavery as practiced in his time. (This is an automatically generated summary.)