African American Slavery Indenture Resistance In Illinois 1720 To 1864

When exploring the history of African American slavery in the United States, it is essential to examine the experiences of those enslaved individuals in various regions, including Illinois. Illinois, although considered a free state, had deeply rooted issues regarding slavery and racial inequality during the years of 1720 to 1864.

The Origins of African American Slavery in Illinois

The earliest records of African American slavery in Illinois date back to the French colonial era in the early 18th century. French colonizers, who had established settlements in the region, participated in the transatlantic slave trade, importing enslaved individuals from Africa to work in the burgeoning settlements.

As the population grew and the English took control of the territory in the mid-18th century, slavery became more prevalent. African Americans faced harsh conditions while working on farms, in households, and in various industries such as mining, boat building, and salt production.

African American Slavery, Indenture & Resistance in Illinois - 1720 to 1864

by Toni Costonie(Kindle Edition)

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1730 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	464 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Indenture Resistance and its Impact

Throughout the period of 1720 to 1864, African American slaves in Illinois actively resisted their enslavement through acts of rebellion, escape, and revolt. They employed various strategies to challenge their oppressors and fight for their freedom.

One form of resistance was through organized rebellions. In 1741, the largest documented rebellion occurred in the French settlement of Kaskaskia, Illinois. Slaves revolted against their masters and fought for their rights and liberation. While their efforts were ultimately quelled, such acts of rebellion sent a powerful message of defiance and resistance.

Escape was another vital strategy employed by enslaved individuals seeking freedom. Many chose to flee to neighboring states, where slavery was less prevalent, or sought refuge in Native American communities. These acts challenged the notion that African Americans were passive victims of slavery, exposing the agency and determination of those who fought for their freedom.

Additionally, resistance took the form of individual acts of defiance within the confines of slavery. Slaves utilized subtle acts of resistance, such as breaking tools, feigning illness, or slowing down work pace, to disrupt the productivity of their oppressors. These acts may have been seemingly small, but they were powerful statements of resistance and exertion of control within oppressive systems.

The Abolitionist Movement and the Road to Emancipation

As the abolitionist movement gained momentum across the United States in the mid-19th century, African American activists and sympathetic white allies in Illinois actively contributed to the fight against slavery. They organized anti-slavery societies, published newspapers, and held public meetings to educate the public about the horrors of slavery and advocate for its abolition.

One significant event in Illinois was the formation of the Illinois Anti-Slavery Society in 1837. This organization played a crucial role in spreading awareness and pushing for legal reforms to dismantle the institution of slavery. Although progress was slow, these efforts laid the foundation for Illinois's eventual commitment to abolishing slavery.

Finally, on January 31, 1865, the Illinois Constitutional Convention abolished slavery within the state. This milestone marked the end of legal slavery in Illinois, a testament to the resilience and determination of African American slaves and their allies in the fight for freedom.

The history of African American slavery in Illinois from 1720 to 1864 is a complex narrative that exposes the hardships, resistance, and resilience of enslaved individuals. Despite facing immense challenges, they actively sought and fought for their freedom through acts of rebellion, escape, and individual defiance.

It is crucial to acknowledge the significant contributions of African American activists and allies in the fight against slavery, such as the Illinois Anti-Slavery Society. Their tireless efforts eventually paved the way for the abolition of slavery within the state.

The legacy of African American slavery in Illinois serves as a reminder of the strength and perseverance of those who fought for liberation. By understanding and honoring this history, we can work towards a more just and equal society for all.

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African American Slavery, Indenture & Resistance in Illinois - 1720 to 1864

by Toni Costonie(Kindle Edition)

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1730 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	464 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

This new book explores the little known history of African Americans in Illinois from 1720 to the end of slavery and indenture in Illinois in 1864. Beginning with Native Americans before European contact, continuing through the enslavement of the Illinois Indians and African Americans initially by French colonists, Costonie traces the oft ignored history of slavery, indenture, the Black Codes, and resistance to slavery in Illinois. African American resistance to slavery included escape on the Underground Railroad, rebellion, and the creation of maroon settlements which dotted the landscape of Illinois. Bishop William Quinn and the African Methodist Episcopal Church, and other churches, played a little known, yet daring and heroic role in the Underground Railroad and in the creation of free black settlements. Despite the odds, and the almost impossible legal circumstances, free and quasi-free African Americans created dozens of free black towns across the state. Costonie also explores the kidnapping of free blacks, and the salt licks which were operated by slave labor and provided income to federal and state treasuries.