Abolish Slavery Dbq Essay

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During the first half of the 19th century in the United States, there were some African-Americans in the Northern states classified as “Free Blacks.” However, as these free Blacks are not slaves, they were not truly free. This group contained certain human rights such as voting, assembly, religion, school, and so on. Yet, all of previous rights mentioned had major restrictions. As well as limitations, there was most certainly discrimination against non-Whites. Free Blacks in the North were free to be American citizens, however, not free to be members of society. The New England, Mid-Atlantic, as well as some of the Midwest states were the first of the states to abolish slavery shown in Leon F. Litwack’s “The Abolition of Slavery 1777-1865” map. Litwack’s map shows when each state abolished slavery which displays that the Northern states were among the first to do so. Once abolition started in the North, those that were slaves, …show more content…

Yet, expected to live as an American citizen. Noted by an Englishman travelling in America “He shall be free to live, and to thrive if he can, and to pay taxes and perform duties.” (Document B) These are all actions and observed by a visitor to the United States. Later mentioned in the article, Charles Mackay goes on to the list of what free Blacks cannot do. Blacks are not allowed to roam freely and do as they please due to what “rules” Whites have placed in society. In a speech made by a valedictorian at an free school in New York City. He starts his speech by explaining on how he works just as hard as any other man, regardless of color, yet feels insignificant. “Where are my prospects? To what shall I turn my hand?...No one will employ me; white boys won’t work with me.” (Document C) Indeed, he is given the right to go to school and get an education, yet, isn’t given the capability to use his school due to the stigma among