Black Women Freedom Fighters - by Gordon S Barker & Sophie A Brady (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

During the antebellum period, African American women were at the center of the nation's battle between slavery and liberty as the country moved closer to civil war. Their resistance added momentum to the abolition movement and led to a more militant stance against slavery among both Black and White Northerners. While their fight exposed the true horrors of slavery, these women's stories also reveal their agency, resilience, and ingenuity.

This work highlights the lives of women who faced and fought against an institution that sanctioned both physical and sexual violence. It also examines the plight of free Black women who were kidnapped and thrust into slavery, and the effects of familial separation. The authors explore how the actions of African American women helped fuel the expansion of the Underground Railroad, influenced both state and federal policy, and ultimately played a vital role in the abolition movement. This book shifts the narrative of emancipation, illuminating the vital contributions of African American women and positioning them at the center of the fight to end slavery.

Review Quotes

"This scholarly offering considers numerous women of African descent who played significant roles in advancing the rights and freedom of enslaved individuals in antebellum America. The in-depth, thoroughly documented chapters are devoted to specific women but go far beyond individual experiences, exploring overarching issues. ... Scholars will appreciate the detailed reports of local events supported by primary-source material... Academic and large public libraries will want to add this important and engaging title."--Booklist

About the Author

Gordon S. Barker is professor of history at Bishop's University in Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada. Sophie A. Brady is a graduate student in history at Carleton University in Ottawa where she works as a program interpreter at the Canadian Museum of History and the Canadian War Museum.