Slavery Issues

Did you know?

• The first slaves sold in America was in Virginia, 1619.
• The Constitution recognized slave property and each state was left to decide to be either a slave or free state.
• In taking the census five slaves were equal to 3 white men.
• The invention of the cotton gin caused more slaves to be brought from Africa.
• George Washington’s will freed some slaves while the rest would be freed upon the death of Mrs. Washington.
• Southern states had laws preventing abolition papers being sent in the mail.
• Under Mexican rule Texas was a free territory, but became a slave state when admitted into the Union.
• The Compromise of 1850 prevented the sale or purchase of slaves in Washington, but those already owned could be kept.
• The Supreme Court decided in favor of slavery.
• Southern preachers quoted the Bible claiming that slavery was approved by God.
• Lincoln said, “If I could save the Union without freeing any slave, I would do it.”