Celebrating Juneteenth 2024
A selection of pieces by or about the abolitionists to celebrate the holiday.
The Juneteenth holiday celebrates the end of slavery in the United States. The abolition of slavery is likely the most important accomplishment of the broad liberal tradition to which libertarianism belongs. As such, it is appropriate that we mark the holiday with a selection of pieces from our archives by or about the abolitionists. We hope learning more about the abolitionists will deepen your appreciation for the cause of human freedom, which they did so much to advance.
Man Cannot Hold Property in Man by William Lloyd Garrison
William Lloyd Garrison indicts Congress for permitting the domestic slave trade on the grounds of natural rights theory. Invoking both the Declaration of Independence and the Bible, Garrison enjoins all those who disrespect man’s right to life, dignity, and self-ownership as violating “Divine prerogative” and the law of nature. Garrison rejects proposals to compensate enslavers for freeing their slaves because “freeing the slave is not depriving [enslavers] of property, but restoring it to its rightful owner.”
Black Women Abolitionists and the Fight for Freedom in the 19th Century by Sharon Presley
Black women defied gendered expectations of deference to their male abolitionist counterparts to spearhead the anti-slavery movement. Harriet Tubman and Sojourner Truth are well-known for their daring rescues and rhetorical prowess, but many other intrepid black women contributed to the cause of abolition; their ranks include founders of abolitionist societies, novelists, publishers, lecturers, doctors, lawyers, and poets.
White Women Abolitionists: More 19th-Century Freedom Fighters by Sharon Presley
In this follow-up to “Black Women Abolitionists…,” Presley explores the significant yet often overlooked contributions of white women in the abolitionist movement. Exploring the lives of individuals such as Elizabeth Margaret Chandler, Lucretia Mott, the Grimke sisters, Lydia Maria Child, and Abby Kelley, Presley highlights their pivotal roles in advocating for abolition and challenging societal norms as early as the 1820s. These women engaged in activism through writing, public speaking, and organizing, despite facing criticism and resistance. Their efforts not only advanced the cause of abolition but also laid groundwork for future feminist reforms, demonstrating a profound commitment to justice and equality.
Frances Ellen Watkins Harper: A Short Biography by Sharon Presley
In this essay, Sharon Presley outlines the life and achievements of Frances E. W. Harper, recognized for writing the first short story published by a black American woman. Harper’s diverse works, including poetry, novels, essays, “fiery” speeches, and short stories, not only showcased her literary talent but also championed black rights and suffrage. One of Harper’s poems, “Eliza Harris,” serves as a capstone for Presley’s discussion.
Abraham Lincoln and the Abolitionists by George H. Smith
George H. Smith’s article—part of a long series about abolitionism beginning with “Abolitionism and Self-Ownership”—examines Abraham Lincoln’s views on slavery and how Lincoln and the Civil War were viewed by abolitionists. Contrary to the myth that Lincoln waged the war to end slavery, his primary goal was to preserve the Union. Lincoln expressed doubts about racial equality and showed support for the relocation to Africa of America’s black population. Some abolitionists, though, hoped that Lincoln could be brought around to doing the right thing despite his lack of commitment to the abolitionist cause.