Americas Racial Freedom :: Free Essays Online

America's Racial Freedom THE ANTI-SLAVERY FAIR & THE LIBERTY BELL: The Beginnings of America’s Racial Freedom 1848 was not a year commonly associated with monumental advancements or changes in the anti-slavery cause in the United States of America. Most individuals today see slavery and the abolitionist movement as an issue that had its beginnings and endings in the 1860s. That particular decade was a complete turning point in the history of our country; however, the long hard road that finally led to the emancipation of slaves tends to be overlooked. From the moment that the first slave stepped foot upon American soil, there were individuals who believed in a greater cause – humanity. Considered radicals at the time because of their comparatively reprehensible ideals, abolitionists traveled across the United States spreading a message of freedom and equality for all mankind. Unfortunately, most of the following generations did not have the opportunity to see these movers and shakers in action. With initial appearances around 1820, one of the only strong remaining links we have to tea ch us about this cause are the manuscripts, stories, poems, and other literary works written by those that were unafraid to bear their souls in hopes of forming a new way of life in American society (â€Å"Mosaic†). The United States of America was undoubtedly a late bloomer when it came to accepting new ideas regarding the validity of slavery. British radicals had formed a group called the Anti-Slavery Society in the late eighteenth century to put an end to slavery within British colonies, a task the organization accomplished. Nearly fifty years later, the Americans adapted their own version of this group, ingeniously calling themselves the American Anti-Slavery Society (AASS) (â€Å"American Anti-Slavery Society†). The lack of ingenuity in naming this organization did not at all reflect upon the enthusiasm and hard work these individuals put into their cause. This newly established abolitionist group came into the public’s eye without any hesitation and they projected a harsh reality to sympathizers and slave owners alike. Their goal was to let their message be heard by as many Americans as possible, which led to the publication of numerous anti-slavery periodicals. These periodi cals were sold at the abolitionist fairs being held regularly all over the country. With these anti-slavery crusades in full swing, controversy also developed regarding the idea of women in leadership positions. In an era where women had just about as many rights as the black folk, many stubborn white men called their expertise into question.