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Sojourner Truth (1797-1883)
Sojourner Truth lived many roles during her lifetime (1797-1883). She was a slave, a daughter, a sister, a wife, a mother, a civil rights activist, a teacher, and a preacher. She lived each role courageously with the same three characteristics guiding her path: love for God, family, and her community. It was these character traits…
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Bibliography and Works Cited
Ritter, Abraham. Philadelphia and Her Merchants. Published by the Author, Philadelphia, 1860 (Thank you to Duke University for the loan.) Duane, Anna Mae. Educated for Freedom: The Incredible Story of Two Fugitive Schoolboys Who Grew Up to Change a Nation. New York University Press, 2020. Foreman, P. Gabrielle, Ed. The Colored Conventions Movement: Black Organizing…
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David Walker (1785-1830)
David Walker’s radical pamphlet, “Appeal: To the COLOURED CITIZENS OF THE WORLD,” sought to awaken those in bondage to a vision of hope and pride. As a self-educated man, he aimed to instill learning in his people and challenge the degrading concept of slavery. His work reflects the love of God for all people.
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Richard Allen and Absalom Jones
Reverend Jones and Bishop Allen met when the latter was called to preach at St. George’s church in Pennsylvania. Facing discrimination and segregation within the congregation, they eventually left and established The Free African Society in 1787. They later played key roles in assisting the sick during the Yellow Fever Epidemic and founding the first two African churches in 1794.
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Richard Allen (1760-1831): Revolutionist for Christ… and Freedom
Bishop Allen, born in Philadelphia in 1760, shared his experience as a young African American during the time of the Declaration of Independence. He discussed his upbringing and his struggle for freedom, ultimately buying his freedom for $2,000. At 20, he embarked on a mission to preach the Gospel, facing challenges but finding success.
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Absalom Jones (1746-1818): The Pathfinder
Reverend Jones, born a slave in 1700s Sussex County, Delaware, showed early intelligence and love for learning. He bought books, taught himself, and later attended night school. He married and worked tirelessly to buy his family’s freedom. Facing racial prejudice in St. George’s Methodist Church, he joined Bishop Allen in building a new worship space.
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Charlotte Vandine Forten (1785-1894): Freedom Shared is Freedom Gained
Mrs. Forten shares the story of her marriage to James and their 8 children. Despite racial prejudice and frequent riots, they opened a school and provided a nurturing environment for their community. Their legacy continues through their accomplished children. James Forten’s funeral procession demonstrated the impact of his peaceful leadership.
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James Forten (1766-1842) on “We the People…”
James Forten, a prominent businessman and abolitionist, shared his impactful story with an interviewer. Born in 1766 in Philadelphia, he witnessed the tumultuous events leading to the Declaration of Independence. At just 10, the document’s words ignited his belief in freedom. Forten later went to war and became a successful businessman and advocate for African American rights.
