John Brown, a black abolitionist in the late 1800s, faced significant hardships due to his radical stance against slavery. Despite fighting for ideals akin to those of George Washington, he was hated by many, particularly in the South.
What hardships did John Brown have to face living as a black abolitionist during the late 1800's?
Northern Supporters of Brown
Brown fought for same things as George Washington, the "so-called father" of the country but yet Brown is hated by many.
Frederick Douglass good friend of Brown's; although, he was accused of being a coward day of the raid.
Labeled Brown as "brave, noble, [and] a heroic old man." Noted he had a "love of Freedom and Right."
Promoted full equality between Blacks and Whites.
Northerners not sorry for the South; they expressed, "not one solitary expression of horror."
Abolitionists celebrated Brown as a martyr to the anti-slavery cause.
Northern supporters "mourned, fasted, [and] prayed" over John Brown's execution. African Americans and abolitionists marked execution date as "Day of Mourning" to honor him. Brown supporters also used songs to commemerate his death.
Anti-Brown Southerners
Brown, "believes in blows, not words."
Blamed Brown for wounding and killling innocent citizens of both sides.
Argues uprising of negros in south lead to murder, rapine, and robbery.
Widespread belief that being slave of a master is better then being freed by violent abolitionsists; south strongly supports institution of slavery.
Southern whites denounced Brown's efforts and formed local militias to guard against slave uprisings.
Southerners viewed Brown's raid as an example of the violent intentions of Northerners; Brown largely contributed to the divided between the North and South.
John Brown's Raid and Trial
December 2, 1859 John Brown was executed.
Brown's trial occurred from October 25th to November 2nd, 1859. He clearly stated his objective was to free the slaves. He uses the bible, the word of God, to prove his punishment is unjust. Furthermore, he states he is willing to die and "forfeit [his] life" to standup for the millions enslaved in the country.
Brown was captured, later convicted, and hung.
On October 16, 1859, Brown and his men raided the federal arsenal at Harper's Ferry, Virginia in order to, "aid those suffering great wrong."
