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| Speaker or Author: | Bell, Philip A. | | Newspaper: | Weekly Advocate (1837) | | Notes: | David Ruggles describes his experience with men who wanted to capture him as a fugitive slave and force him aboard a Brazilian ship bound for Portugal. Both Ruggles and Philip Bell warn the African American public that people are being kidnapped by the crew of this ship and are not heard from again. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Osborne, Peter, fl. 1832 | | Newspaper: | Liberator | | Title: | Address of Mr. Peter Osborne, Delievered on the 5th of July, 1832, to the People of Color in the African Church in the city of New-Haven, Connecticut | | Date Published: | 1832-12-01 | | Notes: | Address delivered on July 5th, the date celebrated to call attention to the "lack of independence" for slaves and as a form of protest to the July 4th celebration. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Wright, Theodore S. (Theodore Sedgwick), 1797-1847 | | Newspaper: | Liberator | | Title: | N. E. Anti-Slavery Convention | | Date Published: | 1836-07-02 | | Notes: | Speech given in response to a resolution regarding the "right of free discussion" which was being threatened by legislation. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Ruggles, David, 1810-1849 | | Newspaper: | Emancipator | | Title: | Traitors Exposed | | Date Published: | 1836-11-02 | | Notes: | Speech delivered before a public meeting recounting the experience of Eliza Drummings at the hands of men who were helping her escape slavery. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Williams, Ranson G. | | Newspaper: | Philanthropist | | Title: | Rhode Island Anti-Slavery Anniversary | | Date Published: | 1836-12-02 | | Notes: | Speech delievered at the first annual meeting of the Rhode Island State Anti-Slavery Society held at the Richmond Church in Providence Rhode Island addressing issues regarding the slave trade, the separation of slave families, and the relationship between slavery and Christian values. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Weekly Advocate (1837) | | Date Published: | 1837-01-07 | | Notes: | Editorial describing the benefits of newspapers published by and for African Americans. The writer emphasizes what makes this newspaper different from others. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Weekly Advocate (1837) | | Date Published: | 1837-01-21 | | Notes: | The writer called for universal emancipation. He emphasized the moral and political injustices of the system of slavery in the U.S. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Banks, Robert, fl. | | Newspaper: | Weekly Advocate (1837) | | Title: | Address Delivered before the colored Female Dorcas Society of the city of Buffalo, by Robert Banks, a colored man | | Date Published: | 1837-02-11 | | Notes: | Address given before the Female Dorcas Society of Buffalo regarding the positive influence of women in the abolition of slavery and aid to former slaves. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1837-03-11 | | Notes: | The editor explains a petition that was sent to the New York state government requesting an end to limited civil rights for free African Americans. The petition included a request for trial by jury, a repeal of the law authorizing slavery, and a restoration of voting rights. He notes that before 1821, free black men were allowed to vote and that this freedom has now been taken from them without just cause. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Ray, Charles B. (Charles Bennett), 1807-1886 | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1837-04-08 | | Notes: | The writer emphasizes the hope and expectation for universal emancipation, civil rights, and acceptance that African Americans desire. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1837-04-15 | | Notes: | The writer apologizes for the crowd of protestors who gathered around and near the trial of fugitive slaves held earlier that week. He admonishes the protestors and askes them to cease such actions. But he also offers his contempt for the men who would hunt and capture those who they call "fugitives." |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1837-04-22 | | Notes: | The writer is outraged at reports that the judge presiding over the trial of fugitive slaves expressed his desire to shoot them for "sport" instead of hearing their case. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1837-04-22 | | Notes: | The writer gives an account of the experience of a black American minister who was refused passage from Europe to the U.S. on an American ship. He was forced to travel to his home country aboard a British ship. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1837-04-29 | | Notes: | The editor announces that Dartmouth College has accepted an Arican American student. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1837-04-29 | | Notes: | The writer expresses his belief that as long as the northern states condone by silent acceptance the actions of those who kidnap free African Americans as "fugitive slaves," there will be disorder and chaos in free state communities. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1837-05-06 | | Notes: | The writer expresses his view that the Church by its silent acceptance of slavery is sending a message of implied approval to its congregations. The power of the Church provided through this implied approval is a way for society to morally justify the continuation of slavery. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1837-05-06 | | Notes: | The writer stresses that in order for African Americans to be accepted as vital and useful members of society, they must present an industrious, moral, and educated image to the community. This involves shaking off old habits, and adopting new goals toward improvement both mentally and physically. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1837-06-10 | | Notes: | The editor comments on a story published in the Times about an African American man who was refused a seat on a public bus. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Wright, Theodore S. (Theodore Sedgwick), 1797-1847 | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Title: | Prejudice Against the Colored Man | | Date Published: | 1837-07-08 | | Notes: | Speech regarding the negative effects of prejudice on people of all races in terms of self-esteem issues, and educational and moral advancement. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1837-07-15 | | Notes: | The writer expresses his belief that in order to overcome prejudice, African Americans must focus on "elevation" and "improvement" intellectually and morally. The focus must be on education, economy, temperance, and on living a moral life. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1837-07-15 | | Notes: | The writer reminds his readers of the importance of the right of suffrage for all Americans. He urges all African Americans to petition the government regarding suffrage legislation and voting rights. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1837-08-26 | | Notes: | The writer relates an experience from his attendence at the Moral Reform Society convention concerning a discussion on the term "Colored" used as reference to African Americans. A Quaker woman stood and told her audience to emphasis the virtue and morality in their lives and prejudice against race will disappear. She reminded them that "it is virtue that exalts a nation, and merit which makes the man." |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1837-08-26 | | Notes: | The writer expresses his disappointment in the proceedings of the Moral Reform Society's convention. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1837-09-09 | | Notes: | The writer traces the changes in racial prejudice over the previous ten years, and denies the popular belief that prejudice has increased due to the efforts of abolitionists. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1837-09-09 | | Notes: | The writer urges his readers to work hard to prove themselves worthy of the civil rights they are being denied. He believes that if all African Americans made it their goal to work "doubly" as hard as their white neighbors they would achieve social acceptance. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Whipper, William, 1804?-1876 | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Title: | Address on Non-Resistance to Offensive Aggression | | Date Published: | 1837-09-09, 1837-09-16, 1837-09-23, 1837-09-30 | | Notes: | Speech published in four separate issues of the Colored American newspaper regarding non-resistence and peaceful protest to the tyranny of slavery, from a Christian perspective. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1837-09-16 | | Notes: | The writer calls attention to the fact that while New York is a free state, African Americans are denied certain rights, among them the right to obtain a license to operate public transportation vehicles. He calls for reason and change to an oppressive system. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1837-09-23 | | Notes: | The editorial addresses the current debate regarding suffrage for African Americans. The writer shares information regarding efforts being made toward this goal by Phillip A. Bell and Charges Ray, and urges his readers to help by petitioning the government. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1837-09-30 | | Notes: | The writer stresses that the abolition of slavery carries with it nothing more than the restoration of human freedom from bondage. The civil rights afforded to citizens of this country are separate issues and must be addressed one at a time. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1837-10-07 | | Notes: | The writer attempts to calm the controvery taking place among abolitionist factions in New England. Instead of working together, there is in-fighting and disagreement among the abolitionists there. He urges them to see reason and continue together towards their noble goal. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Wright, Theodore S. (Theodore Sedgwick), 1797-1847 | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Title: | Address of the Rev. Theodore S. Wright, Before the Convention of the New-York State Anti-Slavery Society, on the Acceptance of the Annual Report, Held at Utica, Sept. 20. | | Date Published: | 1837-10-14 | | Notes: | Speech given before the convention of the New York Anti-Slavery Society on the acceptance of their annual report with an emphasis on the tragedies and injustices of slavery. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Sidney, Thomas S. | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Title: | Reception of Dr. Smith, By the Colored Citizens of New York | | Date Published: | 1837-10-28 | | Notes: | Speech given to welcome the safe return to the U.S. of James McCune Smith after earning his degree at the university in Glasgow, Scotland, with emphasis placed on the importance of education. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1837-11-04 | | Notes: | The writer expresses his view that even the white Americans who are motivated to help African Americans and approaching this endeavor with the purest of intentions believe that the African American is inferior and incapable of helping him/herself. These ideas work against self-esteem and a basic acceptance that all races are human beings and share a common Creator. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Wright, Theodore S. (Theodore Sedgwick), 1797-1847 | | Newspaper: | New York Evangelist | | Title: | Speech of the Rev. Theodore S. Wright, at the Anniversary of the New-York State Anti-Slavery Society | | Date Published: | 1837-11-04 | | Notes: | Speech made in support of a resolution that all civil liberties (including religious, literary, and social liberty) should be made available to all persons regardless of race. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1837-12-16 | | Notes: | The writer reminds his readers of the importance of suffrage for all Americans. He expresses his view that "without the right of suffrage, we are, and must remain, a nonentity in the State and National governments...." He urges his readers to petition the government for the rught of suffrage for free African Americans. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1838-03-03 | | Notes: | The writer gave a critique of a recent speech by Thomas S. Sidney on the subject of civil rights. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1838-03-15 | | Notes: | The writer praises a recent address delivered to the African American community of Pennsylvania. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1838-03-29 | | Notes: | The writer informs his readers that an appeal has been presented before the Supreme Court denouncing and protesting the actions of the "Reform Convention." He said if this "Reform Convention" has done anything good at all it has exposed the Colonization Society for the sham it really is. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1838-04-19 | | Notes: | The writer stresses the benefits of civil rights. While they live in a racially restricted society, most African Americans in New York are not taking advantage of the civil rights they do have. He also stresses the benefits of farming and owning land. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1838-06-02 | | Notes: | The writer tells his readers that those opposed to the work of abolitionists have accused them of increasing prejudice. He believes the only change that may be influencing prejudice is that the rights provided to African Americans in the past as "favors" are now demanded by them as part of their civil rights as members of a free society. The shift in perspective is proving difficult for some white citizens to make. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1838-06-16 | | Notes: | The writer suggests that all African Americans learn about their history, their rights, and the steps necessary to maintain an equal place in a free society. Through education, meetings, and open discussions, they will be able to understand what is taking place in the world around them politically and take action to maintain their civil rights when necessary. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1838-06-30 | | Notes: | The writer expresses his alarm at the increase in racial prejudice that is taking place in public transportation. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1838-07 | | Notes: | The writer rejoices over the fact that Richard Riker no longer holds the office of Recorder of the city of New York. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1838-07-07 | | Notes: | The writer expresses to the community that all African Americans want from them is to be treated equally, to be able to educate their children, and to be afforded the rights and privileges enjoyed by all American citizens. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1838-07-07 | | Notes: | The writer informs his readers that the newspaper's intention is to do good in the community and to assist an oppressed segment of society. If any editorial has offended anyone or created any ill-will, he apologizes for it. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1838-07-07 | | Notes: | The writer calls his readers to action, to stop vacillating and take a stand against lethargy and apathy. He urges them to educate their children, focus on industry and economy, and continue the fight for a better life. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Vogelsang, Peter, Lieutenant | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Title: | Address of Mr. Vogelsang, Senr., Before the Association for the Political Improvement of the People of Color, July 4, 1838 | | Date Published: | 1838-07-14 | | Notes: | Speech given before the Association for the Political Improvement of the People of Color regarding the political rights and civil liberties denied the people of color. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1838-07-21 | | Notes: | The writer warns his readers about an increase in violence against African Americans in the western states. He blames supporters of colonization for this. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1838-07-28 | | Notes: | The writer urges his readers to pray for those who are suffering under the scourge of prejudice and racial violence. He also urges them to pray for those who commit such violent acts upon their fellow human beings. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1838-09-08 | | Notes: | The writer reminds his readers that the most important "civil institution" is one that offers a political influence. Civil rights are worth fighting for, and a focus on the political process involved is worth participating in. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Augustus William Hanson | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Title: | Address Delivered September 3rd, 1838, before the New York Association for the Political Elevation and Improvement of the people of color | | Date Published: | 1838-09-15 | | Notes: | Rambling speech regarding the inherent rights of human beings in a free society regardless of race. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1838-10-20 | | Notes: | The writer suggests that those in favor of colonization who believe that African Americans are doomed to a state of lower-caste misery in the U.S. should take a good look at the progress being made in Canada among those who have immigrated there. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1838-11-17 | | Notes: | The writer urges his readers to vote in accordance with their moral prinicples and not base their vote on party affiliation or abolitionist views. He believes that moral principles only should guide each voter even if it means crossing party lines. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Cornish, Samuel E. (Samuel Eli), 1795?-1858 | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1838-11-24 | | Notes: | The editor responds to a suggestion from a reader named Hamilton that a convention of young African American men meet in Utica to unite their efforts in the work towards realizing political and civil rights. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Title: | New York and Philadelphia. Saturday, November 24, 1838. | | Date Published: | 1838-11-24 | | Notes: | The writer urges his readers to vote in line with abolitionist ideas and political action that will put an end to slavery. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1838-12-15 | | Notes: | The writer comments on the recent changes that have been introduced into Pennsylvania's "revised" state Constitution. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1838-12-15 | | Notes: | The writer encourages his readers to purchase the $250 worth of real estate required to establish the right to vote. He also encourages them to use this voting power to help change the suffrage restrictions that apply to African Americans. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | National Reformer (1838 - 1839) | | Date Published: | 1839-02 | | Notes: | Brief editorial encouraging readers to petition the state government to learn specifically what civil rights are provided to African Americans in Pennsylvania. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1839-02-23 | | Notes: | The writer offers a suggestion to the state legislature to change the requirements for voting so that every African American male who has reached the age of 21 and pays $100 yearly rent can vote. This would replace the current $250 real estate requirement. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1839-03-09 | | Notes: | The writer comments on remarks made by David Hale, publisher of the Journal of Commerce, regarding those who assume positions of authority. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1839-06-22 | | Notes: | The writer comments on a letter published in another column and addressing the issue of civil rights. The letter contrasted the experience of the free African Americans in the south with the free African Americans in the north. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1839-07-13 | | Notes: | The writer offers an answer to the question "what have abolitionists done ...?" He emphasizes the sacrifices and dedication to justice that he sees expressed in those who work for the cause of freedom. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1839-08-24 | | Notes: | The writer expresses his views regarding a resolution asking the African American community to withhold their votes in the upcoming election for any candidate who is not in favor of the immediate abolition of slavery. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1839-08-24 | | Notes: | The writer points out the benefits of union within the African American community. These benefits include not only political rights and safety, but social and community well-being. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1839-10-12 | | Notes: | The writer emphasizes to his readers that their freedom lies in their own hands. He tells them that one race cannot elevate another; that they must take responsibility for their own freedom. Each person must work to elevate him/herself and be all he/she can be, to offer a model of freedom for the generations to follow. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Title: | Self Contradiction. | | Date Published: | 1839-10-12 | | Notes: | The writer makes a distinction between "political action" and "moral action" regarding the issues of slavery and emancipation. He tells his readers that some abolitionists are acting only as it serves their political purposes, not as a moral obligation to God. He urges his readers to continue going to the polls, but to cast their votes for what is religiously right, not what is best for the political party. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1839-11-09 | | Notes: | The writer relates an incidence regarding the prejudicial employment practice of a "certain business." |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1839-11-16 | | Notes: | The writer asks that the New York State Legislature amend the state's Consitution to eliminate the restrictions on African American voters. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Garnet, Henry Highland, 1815-1882. | | Newspaper: | Presscopy -- Seventh Annual Report of the Executive Committee of the American Anti-Slavery Society, pp. 1-7 | | Title: | Seventh Annual Report of the Executive Committee of the American Anti-Slavery Society | | Date Published: | 1840 | | Notes: | Speech given on the seventh anniversary of the American Anti-Slavery Society in response to a resolution put forth stating that all rights and immunities of American citizenship should be afforded to all Americans including the free people of color. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1840-05-02 | | Notes: | The writer discusses reasons for forming a state convention of African Americans to discuss pressing issues such as suffrage and civil rights. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1840-05-23 | | Notes: | Brief statement alerting readers to the passing of a law that provided a jury trial to any person being held as a fugitive slave. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1840-05-30 | | Notes: | The writer discusses the recent legal suit involving an African American man who is fined for operating a push cart without a license. Yet because he is African American, the city refused to issue him a license. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1840-10-10 | | Notes: | The writer stresses the importance of political action and the exercising of voting rights in the work to abolish slavery. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Stewart, Austin, fl. 1840 | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Title: | Remarks of Mr. Stewart at the Albany Convention | | Date Published: | 1840-12-26 | | Notes: | Speech given at the opening of the Albany Convention with emphasis placed on the political and civil rights of free people of color. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1841-05-08 | | Notes: | The writer shares with his readers the current status of a proposed amendment to the Constitution which would allow all citizens to vote regardless of color. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1841-06-12 | | Notes: | Brief update on recent work towards suffrage for African Americans in Connecticut. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Remond, Charles Lenox, 1810-1873 | | Newspaper: | Liberator | | Title: | American Slavery | | Date Published: | 1841-07-30 | | Notes: | Speech given in a public meeting which included debate among several abolitionists regarding the current state of abolition and emancipation. Emphasis is placed on the role of government and a comparison is made with the progress of abolition in other countries. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Stewart, Austin, fl. 1840 | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Title: | Proceedings of the New York State Convention Held in the City of Troy, August 25th, 26th, and 27th, 1841 | | Date Published: | 1841-09-11 | | Notes: | Speech given during a convention held to adopt measures to ensure the franchisement of the free people of color in the free states. Attendees were encouraged to exercise their rights even if they didn't succeed in order to continue the struggle toward total political and social freedom. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1841-09-18 | | Notes: | The writer urges his readers to take action and petition the government for suffrage rights. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Colored American (1837 - 1842) | | Date Published: | 1841-09-18 | | Notes: | The writer offers commentary on the recent three month extended session of Congress. He tells his readers that while strides are being made in the struggle for equal rights, there are growing tensions between northern and southern alliances in Congress. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Remond, Charles Lenox, 1810-1873 | | Newspaper: | Liberator | | Title: | Slavery in America | | Date Published: | 1841-10-22 | | Notes: | Speech given in Limmerick, Ireland regarding the injustice of slavery, in order to elicit support for abolition and emancipation of slaves in the U.S. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Smith, James McCune, 1813-1865 | | Newspaper: | Presscopy -- Boston Public Library -- Anti-Slavery Pamphlets | | Title: | The Destiny of the People of Color, A Lecture Delivered before the Philomathean Society and Hamilton Lyceum | | Date Published: | 1843 | | Notes: | Speech given on the basic idea that slavery is irrational, immoral, and in opposition to the core beliefs of the founding fathers. Emphasis is placed on the destiny and potential future of the Negro race in the U.S. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Remond, Charles Lenox, 1810-1873 | | Newspaper: | Legion of Liberty and Force of Truth | | Title: | Charles Lenox Remond | | Date Published: | 1843 | | Notes: | Speech given in Dublin regarding the irony of slavery in a country (America) which stresses freedom and equality above all else. Emphasis is placed on the hopeless and helpless condition of every slave living in the U.S. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Jenkins, David | | Newspaper: | Palladium of Liberty (1843 - 1844) | | Date Published: | 1844-03-20 | | Notes: | Brief speech on legislation that taxed African Americans but didn't offer them any of the benefits of this taxation. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Palladium of Liberty (1843 - 1844) | | Date Published: | 1844-07-03 | | Notes: | The writer questions the stated policy of stage coach companies that claim to allow African American passengers if their white passengers don't mind. He notes a recent incidence when an African American man was asked to leave the coach when none of the other passengers complained. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Remond, Charles Lenox, 1810-1873 | | Newspaper: | National Anti-Slavery Standard | | Title: | Report of the New England Convention | | Date Published: | 1844-07-18 | | Notes: | This speech is a continuation of a previous speech (not included). Speech addresses the wording of the Constitution in that it does not include provisions for slavery. Also addressed are issues regarding women's rights and inequality based on race and sex. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Palladium of Liberty (1843 - 1844) | | Date Published: | 1844-08-21 | | Notes: | The writer comments on the effects of racial prejudice in current society. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Palladium of Liberty (1843 - 1844) | | Date Published: | 1844-11-13 | | Notes: | The editor answers those who have criticized the newspaper for publishing resolutions given at an unannounced public meeting. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Garnet, Henry Highland, 1815-1882. | | Newspaper: | Emancipator | | Title: | Henry Highland Garnet | | Date Published: | 1845-08-06 | | Notes: | Passionate speech regarding the oppression of slavery. Stress is placed on the illogical belief that keeping the slave ignorant keeps him or her from being discontent; and emphasizing that denying slaves an education prevents them from providing for their own medical, legal, and moral care. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Francis, Abner H. | | Newspaper: | North Star | | Title: | Eulogy on the Life and Character of John Quincy Adams, delivered at Buffalo, March 2, 1848 | | Date Published: | 1848-03-24 | | Notes: | Eulogy for John Quincy Adams stressing the high points and low points of his career. The speaker compared the state of the country to the Roman Empire in its last days. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Delany, Martin Robison, 1812-1885 | | Newspaper: | North Star | | Title: | M. R. Delany | | Date Published: | 1848-05-19 | | Notes: | Brief account of a speech regarding the way Church ministers seemed to be encouraging slavery and considering it a "Divine" institution, thus condoning its continuation. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Ray, Charles B. (Charles Bennett), 1807-1886 | | Newspaper: | National Anti-Slavery Standard | | Title: | Great Anti-Colonization Mass Meeting of the Coloured Citizens of the City of New York | | Date Published: | 1849-05-03 | | Notes: | Speech against the idea and goals of the American Colonization Society. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Spellman, William, fl. 1830-1885 | | Newspaper: | Liberator | | Title: | Colored Convention | | Date Published: | 1849-10-05 | | Notes: | Brief speech regarding civil rights for freed black citizens. The speaker also emphasized his resolution for providing continued employment for black lecturers in Connecticut. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Africanus, S. M. | | Newspaper: | Liberator | | Title: | Colored Convention | | Date Published: | 1849-10-05 | | Notes: | Brief speech regarding the political and civil rights of American citizenship that were being denied to free black citizens. (Includes MP3 audio file.) |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Impartial Citizen (1849 - 1851) | | Date Published: | 1849-12-05 | | Notes: | The writer expresses the effects of prejudice from religion to education. Prejudice is taught to children through fearful stories that pass down from generation to generation. He adds that in spite of this, the African American people are making more progress towards social elevation than any other oppressed people in history. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Voice of the Fugitive (1851 - 1852) | | Title: | Extract from the Law of Louisiana. | | Date Published: | 1851-01-15 | | Notes: | The writer demonstrates the injustice of laws based on racial prejudice that are practiced in some U. S. states. These laws stand in stark contradiction to the precepts of the U. S. Constitution. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Voice of the Fugitive (1851 - 1852) | | Date Published: | 1851-03-26 | | Notes: | The writer discusses recent incidents where free people of color have been kidnapped under the Fugitive Slave Law. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Voice of the Fugitive (1851 - 1852) | | Date Published: | 1852-02-12 | | Notes: | The writer questions the change in policy of James G. Birny who previously stood in opposition to Colonization, but now seems to have changed his thoughts on the subject. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Provincial Freeman (1853 - 1859) | | Date Published: | 1853-03-24 | | Notes: | The writer notes the spread of Colonization efforts into Canada. He notes that while the idea of colonization seems so important to the U.S. and Canadian governments, no black independent government in any part of the world has ever been recognized as valid. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Watkins, William J. | | Newspaper: | Frederick Douglass' Paper (1851 - 18??) | | Date Published: | 1854-03-10 | | Notes: | The writer expresses his views regarding a pamphlet of letters that was published with his (and others) alleged statements without their consent. The statements, taken out of context, seem to imply that he and others agree with the views of Emigrationists, and this is not the case. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Watkins, William J. | | Newspaper: | Frederick Douglass' Paper (1851 - 18??) | | Date Published: | 1854-06-23 | | Notes: | The writer gave a brief overview of the Liberty Party convention he attended. The central aim of this organization is the overthrow of the American government to free themselves from tyranny. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Watkins, William J. | | Newspaper: | Frederick Douglass' Paper (1851 - 18??) | | Date Published: | 1854-08-25 | | Notes: | The writer discusses the injustices of prejudice as it affects segregation in churches and schools. He stresses the distinction made in terms of skin color since an Irish immigrant is granted more consideration than an African American solely because of his skin color. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Watkins, William J. | | Newspaper: | Frederick Douglass' Paper (1851 - 18??) | | Date Published: | 1854-08-25 | | Notes: | The writer asks the rhetorical question "Is color a constitutional disqualifier?" after relating the story of a fugitive slave being refused a passport while in a foreign country since he was black. The official of that country told him that since he was black he couldn't be considered a citizen of the U.S. He addresses the issue of citizenship in the U.S. and how this seems determined by race. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Watkins, William J. | | Newspaper: | Frederick Douglass' Paper (1851 - 18??) | | Date Published: | 1855-02-02 | | Notes: | The writer encourages his readers to be patient regarding the inevitable end of slavery. But patience is not a matter of simply waiting for something to happen. It is instead a way of looking for opportunities towards action. He assures them that freedom that is fought for is sweeter than freedom that is "bestowed upon us." |
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| Speaker or Author: | Watkins, William J. | | Newspaper: | Frederick Douglass' Paper (1851 - 18??) | | Date Published: | 1855-02-09 | | Notes: | The writer emphasizes the discrepancies in the voting rights of men based on their race. He stresses the injustice of the restrictions and rules that an African American man most follow in order to vote in the states that allow him to. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Smith, James McCune, 1813-1865 | | Newspaper: | Anti-Slavery Bugle | | Title: | The Anniveraries. National Council of the Colored People. | | Date Published: | 1855-05-19 | | Notes: | Speech encouraging the National Council of the Colored People to continue work on the promises they established in their previous meeting. These promises included the elevation of the race through education, political advances, and civil rights in every state. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Detter, Thomas, b. ca. 1826 | | Newspaper: | Presscopy -- Harvard University, Cambridge -- Rare Books and Manuscripts | | Title: | Proceedings of the Second Annual Convention of the Colored Citizens of the State of California. | | Date Published: | 1856 | | Notes: | The speaker stressed the injustice of a prejudicial court system that refuses the testimony of black citizens in cases involving white citizens. |
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| Speaker or Author: | S[hadd], I[saac] D. | | Newspaper: | Provincial Freeman (1853 - 1859) | | Date Published: | 1857-04-04 | | Notes: | The writer discusses the current political climate in the U.S. and its effect on immigration to Canada. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Remond, Charles Lenox, 1810-1873 | | Newspaper: | Liberator | | Title: | Speech of Charles L. Remond | | Date Published: | 1857-06-19 | | Notes: | Speech delivered denouncing the legal decision made by Judge Taney. The speaker encouraged his audience to adopt the motto, "No Union with Slaveholders." He said he would rather see the union divided than to give up the fight for freedom and the cause of human liberty. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Remond, Charles Lenox, 1810-1873 | | Newspaper: | Anti-Slavery Bugle | | Title: | Meeting at Pittsburgh and New Brighton | | Date Published: | 1857-12-12 | | Notes: | The speaker's topic was "Prejudice against Color." He emphasized that he had not experienced prejudice during his travels in Europe, but had encountered it only in the U.S. He believed prejudice to be "unnatural" and that a human being should be recognized for his character and moral worth instead of the color of his skin. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Remond, Charles Lenox, 1810-1873 | | Newspaper: | Liberator | | Title: | Speech of C. L. Remond | | Date Published: | 1859-07-08 | | Notes: | The speaker denounced the "Two Years' Amendment" that Massachusetts had established. The amendment stated that immigrants must wait two years before they can vote. The speaker emphasized that while the Democratic Party had compared this with the fact that black citizens could vote after one year, both of these stipulations were prejudicial. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Day, William Howard, d. 1900 | | Newspaper: | Douglass' Monthly | | Title: | Anti-Slavery Meeting | | Date Published: | 1859-08 | | Notes: | Brief speech in which the speaker appealed to his Irish audience for help in the fight for emancipation. He gave an example of the conditions under which the slaves live and blamed the cotton industry for the continuation of slavery. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Langston, John Mercer, 1829-1897. | | Newspaper: | Anti-Slavery Bugle | | Title: | Remarks of J. M. Langston of Oberlin | | Date Published: | 1859-09-24 | | Notes: | The speaker stressed that where there is one person legally enslaved in the U.S., there is no liberty for anyone. Slavery makes slaves of us all. When a government encourages slavery, it evokes a need to control the slaves. This requires laws which limit freedom for everyone. The speaker offered examples to substantiate his ideas. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Rock, John S. (John Sweat), 1825-1866 | | Newspaper: | Liberator | | Title: | Speech of Dr. John S. Rock, Before the Committee on Federal Relations in the Hall of the Massachusetts House of Representatives, Feb. 24th, on behalf of a Petition to strike out the word 'WHITE' in the Militia Law of the State. | | Date Published: | 1860-03-02 | | Notes: | Eloquent speech addressing the influence of government legislation that implied prejudicial bias regarding race. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Still, William, 1821-1902. | | Newspaper: | Weekly Anglo-African (1859 - 1862) | | Date Published: | 1860-11-24 | | Notes: | The speaker stresses that the slave and the free people of color must help themselves to create a better condition for their lives. He emphasizes working towards moral, social, and political integrity in order to ensure success. The speaker believes that hard work, education, and morality are key to achieving the desired results for elevating the race. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Weekly Anglo-African (1859 - 1862) | | Date Published: | 1861-03-23 | | Notes: | Brief commentary on an association established for "mutual protection," the realization of civil and social rights, and the general social benefit of African Americans. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Weekly Anglo-African (1859 - 1862) | | Date Published: | 1861-04-20 | | Notes: | The writer commends the work of Henry Highland Garnet, and praises him as a positive example of what is possible for all African Americans who strive for greatness. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Weekly Anglo-African (1859 - 1862) | | Date Published: | 1861-05-04 | | Notes: | The writer comments on the American Anti-Slavery Society's decision to postpone their annual meeting. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Weekly Anglo-African (1859 - 1862) | | Title: | The Archbishop on Causes--(Casuistry?) | | Date Published: | 1861-10-19 | | Notes: | Detailed commentary on a letter written by Archbishop Hughes regarding slavery, religion, government, and the current war. The Archbishop insists that the Civil War is not about freeing the slaves, but about whether the entire country should be "...a slaveholding Republic, in which labor is performed by slaves either black or white." |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Lunar Visitor (1862 - 18??) | | Date Published: | 1862-02 | | Notes: | The writer breaks down the wants of African Americans in order to realize social harmony with their white fellow citizens. He emphasizes unity in this regard: unity of purpose, sympathy, self-respect; and a basic shared interest in human welfare. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Pacific Appeal (1862 - 188?) | | Date Published: | 1862-04-05 | | Notes: | The writer comments on various newspapers who help sign a petition for African Americans to enjoy "the right of oath" or the right to give testimony. He emphasizes one newspaper in particular that is against this idea. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Pacific Appeal (1862 - 188?) | | Date Published: | 1862-04-05 | | Notes: | The writer offers his thoughts on the current situation with the Civil War which he expects will end soon. He notes that the war and the Right of Testimony are the two main issues concerning African Americans at this time. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Pacific Appeal (1862 - 188?) | | Date Published: | 1862-04-26 | | Notes: | The writer shares with his readers an article from the 1775 Constitution of Maryland providing the right of suffrage to any man with property. He tells his readers that this right to vote for all men was also accepted in two other states. It was only later that these state constitutions were changed to limit suffrage to white men only. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Pacific Appeal (1862 - 188?) | | Date Published: | 1862-05-03 | | Notes: | The writer lets his readers know that the Negro Testimony Bill (resulting from petitions they had gathered) did not pass the state Senate. He urges them not to give up hope, and assures them the fight for this right will continue. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Pacific Appeal (1862 - 188?) | | Date Published: | 1862-05-17 | | Notes: | The writer expresses his views on why the government denies African Americans the "Right of Testimony." |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Pacific Appeal (1862 - 188?) | | Date Published: | 1862-06-07 | | Notes: | The writer expresses his views on manifesting positive change in the condition of the lives of African Americans through organization, petitioning, and union of purpose. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Pacific Appeal (1862 - 188?) | | Date Published: | 1862-07-05 | | Notes: | The writer urges his readers to again petition the California state government regarding legislation for the Right of Testimony. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Pacific Appeal (1862 - 188?) | | Date Published: | 1862-08-16 | | Notes: | The writer hopes that the new legislature of the California state government will see the justice and reason of providing African Americans with the Right of Testimony. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Pacific Appeal (1862 - 188?) | | Date Published: | 1862-09-13 | | Notes: | The writer tells his readers that all those who were in favor of the Negro Testimony Bill in the state Legislature have been re-elected. Those who opposed it, have been rejected in state politics. He believes this bill will certainly pass now. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Pacific Appeal (1862 - 188?) | | Date Published: | 1862-10-11 | | Notes: | The writer comments on the Dred Scott case. He focuses on the dissent of Justice Curtis. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Steward, Austin | | Newspaper: | Presscopy -- Onondaga County Public Library [Coles, Howard W., The Cradle of Freedom, (1941), pp. 23-26] | | Title: | Oration -- Termination of Slavery | | Date Published: | 1863 | | Notes: | At the termination of slavery in the U.S., the speaker reflected on what had been an accepted economic mainstay in the system of slavery and what potential for change was now available for all U.S. citizens. He urged his audience to take advantage of the opportunity to prosper by adopting a Christian lifestyle, avoiding "hard spirits," and focusing on civil rights. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Smith, J. B. (John B.), Rev., fl. 1852-1863 | | Newspaper: | Liberator | | Title: | Emancipation Day in Boston. Union Progressive Association Meeting at Tremont Temple. | | Date Published: | 1863-01-16 | | Notes: | The speaker emphasized the desire for equal rights for the newly freed slaves. While he admitted to being surprised by the Emancipation Proclamation, he believed it was God's Will and that justice had finally prevailed. He denounced those who agreed with the Crittenden Compromise, and emphasized that the war was not caused by the abolitionists. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Pacific Appeal (1862 - 188?) | | Date Published: | 1863-02-14 | | Notes: | Although the Emancipation Proclamation is in effect, and speeches are being made regarding the meaning of freedom in this country, true freedom will not be realized until the Civil War is ended and peace is restored. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Pacific Appeal (1862 - 188?) | | Date Published: | 1863-03-07 | | Notes: | The writer tells his readers that the two bills allowing African Americans to testify in court proceedings involving white persons have passed the California Senate. (See editorial 26388 for a correction to this editorial published later.) |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Pacific Appeal (1862 - 188?) | | Date Published: | 1863-03-21 | | Notes: | The editor reminds his readers that since the Testimony Bill has passed and they are now receiving more legal protection, it's important to pay close attention to how their actions effect social perception. He urges them to act according to the standards they've set for themselves in acquiring this hard fought for civil right. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Pacific Appeal (1862 - 188?) | | Date Published: | 1863-04-04 | | Notes: | The writer shares with his readers the break-down of delegates and how each voted in the San Francisco assembly regarding the Testimony Bill. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Pacific Appeal (1862 - 188?) | | Date Published: | 1863-04-11 | | Notes: | Although several state constitutions were changed to insert the word "white" in order to restrict African American citizenship rights, the Conscription Law now makes the use of this term obsolete when it comes to the militia. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Pacific Appeal (1862 - 188?) | | Date Published: | 1863-04-25 | | Notes: | Contrary to the fears of those opposed to emancipation, those freed from slavery have not turned to violence. The writer now hopes that all African Americans will enjoy the rights of citizenship in every state. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Pacific Appeal (1862 - 188?) | | Date Published: | 1863-05-09 | | Notes: | The writer comments on the rampant discrimination that is taking place with public transportation. He emphasizes that African American women are often the helpless targets of this as they attempt to ride the public trains. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Pacific Appeal (1863 - 188?) | | Date Published: | 1863-06-13 | | Notes: | The writer comments on the exchange talking place in California newspapers regarding the question of whether African Americans should be allowed to celebrate the Fourth of July. He includes a list of suggested activities to commemorate the day. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Johnson, Ezra R. | | Newspaper: | Pacific Appeal | | Title: | Celebration of the Fourth of July, By the Colored Citizens of San Francisco | | Date Published: | 1863-07-11 | | Notes: | Patriotic speech regarding the pride the speaker felt towards the black troops who were fighting and dying for their country in the Civil War. He was most impressed with how well they were received and celebrated for their heroism by the general population. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Pacific Appeal (1862 - 188?) | | Date Published: | 1863-07-25 | | Notes: | The writer comments on an article published in the Evening Journal newspaper regarding Attorney General Edward Bates' opinion on citizenship. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Pacific Appeal (1862 - 188?) | | Date Published: | 1863-09-12 | | Notes: | The writer urges his readers to conduct themselves as "good citizens" now that the election is over and the state government seems inclined towards freedom and progress. He doesn't recommend at this point agitating for voting rights. He suggests proving the prejudicial pro-slavery factions wrong by demonstrating a strong moral character and a desire for social harmony. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Langston, John Mercer, 1829-1897. | | Newspaper: | Presscopy -- Boston Athenaeum -- Pamphlet Collection | | Title: | Proceedings of the National Convention of Colored Men Held in the City of Syracuse, N. Y., October 4, 5, 6, and 7, 1864 With the Bill of Wrongs and Rights and the Address to the American People | | Date Published: | 1864 | | Notes: | Brief overview of a speech made at the National Convention of Colored Men held in Syracuse, New York. The speaker emphasized that all races were made slaves if the system of oligarchy were allowed to continue. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Pacific Appeal (1862 - 188?) | | Date Published: | 1864-01-23 | | Notes: | The writer comments on the way African American soldiers have distinguished themselves on the battlefield and proven wrong those who believed they would not fight for their country. He suggests that other misconceptions and fears about African Americans are being proven incorrect one by one. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Pacific Appeal (1862 - 188?) | | Date Published: | 1864-03-19 | | Notes: | The writer comments on recent governmental action that suggests that things really are changing and progress really is being made with the acceptance of African Americans as true citizens of the U.S. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Davis, William A., fl. 1862-1864 | | Newspaper: | Liberator | | Title: | New England Anti-Slavery Convention | | Date Published: | 1864-06-03 | | Notes: | The speaker emphasized that while it seemed as if slavery was coming to an end, the work for civil rights for African Americans was just beginning. (Includes MP3 audio file) |
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| Speaker or Author: | Green, Alfred M.. | | Newspaper: | Presscopy -- Foner and Walker, Eds. -- Proceedings of the Black State Conventions 1840-1865, (1979) Vol. 1, pp. 139-166 | | Title: | Proceedings of the State Equal Rights Convention of the Colored People of Pennsylvania | | Date Published: | 1865 | | Notes: | Eloquent, rational, and meaningful speech delivered before the Convention of the Colored People of Pennsylvania expressing a legal argument for civil rights. The speaker asked that African Americans be given their civil rights, be allowed to vote, hold jobs equal to those of the white population, and be given the opportunity to prove themselves worthy citizens of the U.S. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Martin, J. Sella (John Sella), b. 1832 | | Newspaper: | Western Reserve Historical Society, Cleveland Ohio -- Sella Martin Book | | Title: | The Cotton Question Free Versus Slave Labour A Paper Read at the National Association for the Promotion of Social Sciences | | Date Published: | 1865 | | Notes: | The speaker traced in detail the benefits and the drawbacks of raising cotton. He stressed the value of the crop itself and its positive influence on the American economy. He linked this with the work of slaves who had given their health and lives to produce it. The remainder of the speech stressed the predicament that the emancipation of the slaves placed on those involved with cotton production. He also emphasized that the Negro was not inferior to the white race and he offered several examples to prove this. He believed the future of the production of cotton and other crops was with science not with "brute" man power. The idea of inferiority of one race was not a sound argument for slavery. He argued for the right of all human beings to be free. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Vashon, George Boyer, 1824-1878 | | Newspaper: | Presscopy -- Foner and Walker, Eds. -- Proceedings of the Black State Conventions 1840-1865, (1979) Vol. 1, pp. 139-166 | | Title: | Proceedings of the State Equal Rights' Convention of the Colored People of Pennsylvania Held on the City of Harrisburg ... | | Date Published: | 1865 | | Notes: | Brief overview of speech in which the speaker expressed his view that a country that is not administered by a just and impartial government was not secure or permanent. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Langston, John Mercer, 1829-1897. | | Newspaper: | Nashville Times and True Union | | Title: | Speech of J. M. Langston of Oberlin, O. on the Anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation Delivered in the Hall of Representatives January 2D, 1865. | | Date Published: | 1865-01-04 | | Notes: | Speech delivered before a mixed race audience in the House of Representatives. The speaker stressed his hope for a brighter future for the former slaves. He spoke of the injustice suffered by slaves over the years since slavery was first established in the U.S. He paid special attention to the contributions and sacrifices that African Americans had made to the country, and his hope for future racial harmony. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Elevator (1865 - 18??) | | Date Published: | 1865-04-07 | | Notes: | The editor expands on the newspaper's prospectus. He emphasizes the belief that all American citizens are equal members of the United States, regardless of their color or country of origin. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Elevator (1865 - 18??) | | Date Published: | 1865-04-14 | | Notes: | The writer shares an article from the Christian Advocate which in turn includes an article from the Oregon Advocate regarding equal rights to free African Americans. These two Christian newspapers discuss issues like Colonization, which was long ago abandoned as a solution to the issues of African American equality and racial degradation. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Elevator (1865 - 18??) | | Date Published: | 1865-04-14 | | Notes: | The editor tells his readers that the Elevator newspaper is published without a focus on race or caste, but on quality and virtue. He hopes that it will be read and appreciated by all Americans regardless of race. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Black Republican (1865) | | Date Published: | 1865-04-15 | | Notes: | The editor discusses the right of suffrage and a recent government petition regarding this signed by five thousand African Americans. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Elevator (1865 - 18??) | | Date Published: | 1865-04-21 | | Notes: | The writer encourages people in other parts of the state to join the efforts of the Elevator newspaper in petitioning the government for equal voting rights for African Americans. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Black Republican (1865) | | Date Published: | 1865-04-22 | | Notes: | The writer discusses two candidates who are running for Governor and Lieutenant Governor in Rhode Island, a state that offers African Americans the right to vote. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Elevator (1865 - 18??) | | Date Published: | 1865-04-28 | | Notes: | The writer comments on an article published in another newspaper regarding voting rights for African Americans in California. Although the other newspaper warns against the dire consequences of equal rights, the editor points to the success of this action in other states. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Elevator (1865 - 18??) | | Date Published: | 1865-05-05 | | Notes: | The writer responds to an article published in another newspaper discussing African American voting rights. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Langston, John Mercer, 1829-1897. | | Newspaper: | Elevator (Incomplete) | | Title: | From the Anglo-African. Extracts from a Lecture delivered by J. Mercer Langston, at Cooper Institute, New York | | Date Published: | 1865-05-12 | | Notes: | Eloquent speech regarding the positive changes the speaker could already see as a result of the end of the Civil War and the emancipation of the slaves. The speaker stressed, however, that more changes were needed before racial equality could be realized. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Elevator (1865 - 18??) | | Date Published: | 1865-05-12 | | Notes: | The writer argues that political elections seem to always ignore the needs of African Americans. He argues for equal rights and the privileges of citizenship that seem to be easier for immigrants to this country to acquire than for African Americans to realize. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Elevator (1865 - 18??) | | Date Published: | 1865-05-19 | | Notes: | Now that the nation has mourned the death of Abraham Lincoln the focus of American attention turns to Reconstruction and the question of rights for the newly freed slaves. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Elevator (1865 - 18??) | | Date Published: | 1865-05-19 | | Notes: | The writer tells his readers that African Americans have three main duties to perform to participate as good U. S. citizens: social (to realize quality in their own individual lives), civil, and political. He expands a bit on each, and tells his readers he will address the moral and religious duties in another issue. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Elevator (1865 - 18??) | | Date Published: | 1865-05-26 | | Notes: | The writer responds to an idea expressed in the Morning Call newspaper that civil wars are based on racial issues, and that problems arise within a society that mixes races. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Elevator (1865 - 18??) | | Date Published: | 1865-06-09 | | Notes: | The writer tells his readers that of all the rights due to every citizen, the right to education is the most important. At this point, African American children are receiving a rudimentary education at best and this needs to be changed. He stresses the pros and cons of segregated schools where they exist. He emphasizes that education by white teachers who may instill a sense of inferiority in African American children is better than no education at all. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Elevator (1865 - 18??) | | Date Published: | 1865-06-16 | | Notes: | The writer tells his readers a bit about the lawyer who is defending Jefferson Davis during his trial. He believes both Davis and his lawyer to be traitors. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Elevator (1865 - 18??) | | Date Published: | 1865-06-23 | | Notes: | The writer tells his readers that there is a communication issue between the races which is contributing to the problem of racial inequality. White Americans have concluded the status of African Americans without really knowing how they live or what is important to them. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Elevator (1865 - 18??) | | Date Published: | 1865-07-07 | | Notes: | The writer tells his readers that the people of Connecticut are about to vote on an amendment to that state's Constitution which will allow African American's to vote there. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Elevator (1865 - 18??) | | Date Published: | 1865-07-14 | | Notes: | The writer shares a letter from a Union soldier expressing his belief that "freedmen of the South" deserve the right to vote. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Elevator (1865 - 18??) | | Title: | Loyal Butchers. | | Date Published: | 1865-07-21 | | Notes: | The editor lists the names of African American butchers who were not afraid to participate in the July 4th parade even though there was opposition to their presence from other groups. He includes brief advertising for establishments that also participated. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Elevator (1865 - 18??) | | Date Published: | 1865-08-04 | | Notes: | The writer offers various reasons why a convention is in order for African Americans. The questions of suffrage, education, and restricting laws offer reason enough, but a convention is also a way of uniting people in a common cause. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Remond, Charles Lenox, 1810-1873 | | Newspaper: | Liberator | | Title: | Celebration of West India Emancipation | | Date Published: | 1865-08-11 | | Notes: | Brief speech in which the speaker expressed his belief that emancipation had failed. He believed that new states entering the Union should do so only on "...the basis of free suffrage, free religion and free social and civil rights." |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Elevator (1865 - 18??) | | Date Published: | 1865-08-18 | | Notes: | The writer comments on articles published in the Examiner and Democratic Press newspapers that he believes are biased and prejudiced against African Americans. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Elevator (1865 - 18??) | | Date Published: | 1865-08-25 | | Notes: | The writer gives detailed commentary on a recent political convention. |
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| Speaker or Author: | Peck, John, of Pittsburgh | | Newspaper: | Christian Recorder (1852 - 1856) | | Title: | Proceedings of the Annual Meeting of the Pennsylvania State Equal Rights League, Held in the City of Harrisburg, August 9th and 10th, 1865 | | Date Published: | 1865-08-26 | | Notes: | Brief speech in which the speaker stressed unity of purpose and a coordinated effort among white as well as black citizens to reach the goals of equality, moral elevation, and racial harmony. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Anglo-African (1863 - 1865) | | Date Published: | 1865-09-03 | | Notes: | The writer offers an overview of the situation in the British West Indies after emancipation. Although the feared violence never manifested, the growing tension between the newly freed slaves and former slave-owners was more pronounced than previously believed. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Anglo-African (1863 - 1865) | | Date Published: | 1865-09-03 | | Notes: | The writer responds to a note published in another newspaper saying that free African Americans will not be content to rank themselves among those newly freed slaves who that author believes do not yet have the "rudiments of civilization." |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Elevator (1865 - 18??) | | Date Published: | 1865-09-15 | | Notes: | The writer offers commentary on recent developments in the Reconstruction efforts of the country since the Civil War. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Elevator (1865 - 18??) | | Date Published: | 1865-09-29 | | Notes: | The writer offers valid reasons for holding a convention of African Americans in California. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Anglo-African (1863 - 1865) | | Date Published: | 1865-10-07 | | Notes: | The writer expresses the fears that permeate African American communities that the white slaveholders will demand a return to the system of slavery, and be granted this by the government. The majority of African Americans, however, are determined to resist and not allow this to happen without a fight. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Elevator (1865 - 18??) | | Date Published: | 1865-10-27 | | Notes: | The writer considers the principles that the United States legal system is based on. He notes that these principles were violated by the institution of slavery. If this country is to remain free, the American people can never return to this form of systematic injustice. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Anglo-African (1863 - 1865) | | Date Published: | 1865-11-11 | | Notes: | The writer offers his views regarding the current governmental ideas on Reconstruction after the Civil War. He tells his readers that he speaks for all African Americans in saying that the country should work towards ensuring freedom for all and providing all American people with the rights of citizenship regardless of color. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Elevator (1865 - 18??) | | Date Published: | 1865-12-01 | | Notes: | The writer comments on restrictions in place in each of the six states that allow African Americans to vote. All other U.S. states forbid African American voting. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Elevator (1865 - 18??) | | Date Published: | 1865-12-22 | | Notes: | While there was slavery in the ancient world, the writer points that the U.S. is the only country that added racial prejudice to the experience. The writer gives a historic overview of the system of slavery and its continued influence on current U.S. society. |
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| Speaker or Author: | editor | | Newspaper: | Anglo-African (1863 - 1865) | | Date Published: | 1865-12-23 | | Notes: | The writer comments on the proceedings of the first session of the Thirty-Ninth Congress. Debate about laws and civil rights for the newly freed slaves after Reconstruction made this session an important one. |
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