The Revolution & Slavery - All Men Created Equal?
This episode focuses on the institution and attitude surrounding slavery in the immediate aftermath of the American Revolution. The new republic just battled to earn their independence - but what about those who were denied such freedom?
This week I talk about the institution of human bondage in the immediate aftermath of the American Revolution.
The colonies had just declared themselves a free and independent republic where all men were created equal. But what about the men and women forced to serve in life long bondage? What did this fight for independence mean for them?
As I talk about this week, there was an immediate - albeit short lived - shift in the acceptance of and need for slavery. But as an institution and labor source, slavery would remain as part of the American fabric for another 100 years. Enjoy!
Sources Used This Episode:
- American Slavery by Peter Kolchin
- Vermont, the first state to abolish adult slavery, is trying to remove any mention of slavery from its Constitution altogether by Brandon Griggs, CNN. (LINK)
- Massachusetts Constitution and the Abolition of Slavery (LINK)
- Revolutionary Changes & Limitations: Slavery, U.S. History Online Textbook (LINK)
Listen On
Listener Favorites
Not sure where to begin? Take a listen to some fan favorites.
The Indian Removal Act of 1830
During his eight years as president of the United States, Andrew Jackson passed one major piece of legislation: the Indian Removal Act of 1830. A bill set up to allow negotiations between the federal government and tribal nations for land …
The Massachusetts 54th
Depicted in the 1989 Hollywood feature film "Glory" the Massachusetts 54th was the first all black regiment to fight in the Civil War. Established in the aftermath of the Emancipation Proclamation, the members serving in the regiment had much riding …
Mary Todd Lincoln: Part One
The wife of 16th President Abraham Lincoln, Mary Todd Lincoln is generally known for her eccentric personality. However, there is so much more sitting beneath the surface. Join me this week as I begin the life and times of Mary …