Sojourner Truth lived many roles during her lifetime (1797-1883). She was a slave, a daughter, a sister, a wife, a mother, a civil rights activist, a teacher, and a preacher. She lived each role courageously with the same three characteristics guiding her path: love for God, family, and her community. It was these character traits…
Ritter, Abraham. Philadelphia and Her Merchants. Published by the Author, Philadelphia, 1860 (Thank you to Duke University for the loan.) Duane, Anna Mae. Educated for Freedom: The Incredible Story of Two Fugitive Schoolboys Who Grew Up to Change a Nation. New York University Press, 2020. Foreman, P. Gabrielle, Ed. The Colored Conventions Movement: Black Organizing…
David Walker’s radical pamphlet, “Appeal: To the COLOURED CITIZENS OF THE WORLD,” sought to awaken those in bondage to a vision of hope and pride. As a self-educated man, he aimed to instill learning in his people and challenge the degrading concept of slavery. His work reflects the love of God for all people.
Bishop Allen, born in Philadelphia in 1760, shared his experience as a young African American during the time of the Declaration of Independence. He discussed his upbringing and his struggle for freedom, ultimately buying his freedom for $2,000. At 20, he embarked on a mission to preach the Gospel, facing challenges but finding success.
James Forten, a prominent businessman and abolitionist, shared his impactful story with an interviewer. Born in 1766 in Philadelphia, he witnessed the tumultuous events leading to the Declaration of Independence. At just 10, the document’s words ignited his belief in freedom. Forten later went to war and became a successful businessman and advocate for African American rights.