ebooks American Antislavery Songs: A Collection and Analysis (Documentary Reference Collections) by Vicki L. Eaklor in History

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The abolitionists of the 1830s-1850s risked physical harm and social alienation as a result of their refusal to ignore what they considered a national sin; contrary to the ideals upon which America was founded. Derived from the moral accountability called for by the Great Awakening and the Quaker religion; the abolitionist movement demanded not just the gradual dismantling of the system or a mandated political end to slavery; but an end to prejudice in the hearts of the American people. Primary documents; illustrations and biographical sketches of notable figures illuminate the conflicted struggle to end slavery in America.Some called them fanatics; others called them liberators and saints. Immeasurable though their ultimate impact may have been; the abolitionists of the 1830s-1850s risked physical harm and social alienation as a result of their refusal to ignore what they considered a national sin; contrary to the ideals upon which America was founded. Derived from the moral accountability called for by the Great Awakening and the Quaker religion; the abolitionist movement demanded not just the gradual dismantling of the system or a mandated political end to slavery; but an end to prejudice in the hearts of the American people. Claudine Farrell's concluding essay draws parallels between the abolitionists' struggles and the Civil Rights movement of the 1950s-1970s; demonstrating the significant amount of ground being gained in a still-unfinished war.Five narrative chapters explore the abolitionist movement's religious beginnings; the conflict between moral justice and union preservation; and the revolts; divisions and conflicts leading up to the Civil War. Biographical portraits of such notable figures as Frederick Douglass; William Lloyd Garrison; and the Grimke sisters supplement the discussion; and selections from some of the most influential documents in American history―including the Emancipation Proclamation; the US Constitution; and The Writings of Thomas Jefferson―provide actual historical evidence of the events. Twelve illustrations; a chronology; index and extensive annotated bibliography make this an ideal starting point for students looking to understand the battle for and against slavery in America.