In 1813, Black activist and entrepreneur James Forten published a pamphlet titled *Letters from a Man of Colour* to protest a proposed Pennsylvania law that would restrict free Black people from entering the state. In his writing, Forten quoted the Declaration of Independence to argue that free Black Pennsylvanians were entitled to the same natural rights as white Americans. Which of the following strategies of the early Black abolitionist movement is best illustrated by Forten's argument?
- Using the founding principles and documents of the United States to demand citizenship and equal legal rights.Answer
- BAdvocating for the total emigration of free Black Americans to establish independent colonies in Africa.
- CEstablishing isolated grand maroon communities in northern wilderness areas to escape federal laws.
- DEncouraging enslaved workers to engage in covert everyday resistance, such as breaking plantation tools.
Answer
Using the founding principles and documents of the United States to demand citizenship and equal legal rights.
The correct answer is correct because James Forten's reference to the Declaration of Independence is a prime example of how early Black reformers used the core founding principles of the United States to argue that free Black people should be granted full citizenship and protection from discriminatory laws.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Early Black abolitionists and activists leveraged the democratic ideals and language of the American Revolution to argue for racial equality and equal protection under the law.
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