On July 2; 1822; officials in Charleston; South Carolina; executed a free black carpenter named Denmark Vesey for planning what would have been the most extensive slave revolt in U.S. history. Only days before the rebellion was scheduled to begin; authorities learned of the plot and arrested and imprisoned those involved. That summer; more than a hundred black Charlestonians were put on trial for their part in the conspiracy. Thirty-five were eventually sent to the gallows. Designs against Charleston is a fascinating and comprehensive account of the Vesey conspiracy that uses both primary and secondary sources. Until now; readers interested in the trials have had to rely primarily on a heavily censored account published in 1822 by the men who tried the conspirators. This book contains the complete; verbatim transcript of the trials. Here; published for the first time; are the words of the accused as they were originally recorded in the courtroom. Pearson also discusses the social and cultural life of Charleston in the early nineteenth century; the political and religious ideas that inspired Vesey and his followers to plan the city's destruction; and; finally; the impact that the conspiracy and its aftermath had on the lives of South Carolinians; both black and white.
#439411 in Books 2016-10-05 2016-10-05Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.00 x 1.25 x 6.00l; .0 #File Name: 0807164070320 pages
Review
3 of 3 people found the following review helpful. Devils WalkingBy D. SansonThis story is written without prejudice. The truth is revealed. There is sadness; yet brings validation and closure in some cases; to families of some of the victims. The book is written from a tender heart. It is a book that every American should read.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. is largely based on this research I would certainly recommend it to anyone who is or has read theseBy W. Russell TurnerAbsolutely fascinating account of Klan activity in the 1960's Mississippi and Louisiana. Mr. Nelson seems to have done exhaustive research to produce this work.Since Greg Iles recent trilogy;Mississippi Burning; is largely based on this research I would certainly recommend it to anyone who is or has read these.Perhaps more important is the feeling that many of us thought that the days depicted here were well behind us. I have included it in my current events bookshelf because we are seeing a resurgence in this sort of hate and bigotry. How often do we have to have lessons repeated?0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Good book. Distressing contentBy Dr PepperGood book. Distressing content; only because it is horrible to realize the depth of evil that people can go. Important to read about events like these; so that no one ever forgets. And hope that mankind can improve.
