What hardships did John Brown have to face living as a black abolitionist during the late 1800's?
John Brown's Raid and Trial
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."
Brown was captured, later convicted, and hung.
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.
December 2, 1859 John Brown was executed.
Anti-Brown Southerners
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.
Southern whites denounced Brown's efforts and formed local militias to guard against slave uprisings.
Widespread belief that being slave of a master is better then being freed by violent abolitionsists; south strongly supports institution of slavery.
Argues uprising of negros in south lead to murder, rapine, and robbery.
Blamed Brown for wounding and killling innocent citizens of both sides.
Brown, "believes in blows, not words."
Northern Supporters of Brown
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.
Abolitionists celebrated Brown as a martyr to the anti-slavery cause.
Northerners not sorry for the South; they expressed, "not one solitary expression of horror."
Promoted full equality between Blacks and Whites.
Labeled Brown as "brave, noble, [and] a heroic old man." Noted he had a "love of Freedom and Right."
Frederick Douglass good friend of Brown's; although, he was accused of being a coward day of the raid.
Brown fought for same things as George Washington, the "so-called father" of the country but yet Brown is hated by many.