Slavery’s Capitalism and the Fraught Promise of Liberty in Revolutionary America

Dr. Justene Hill Edwards, University of Virginia

What did freedom mean to enslaved people during the American Revolution? “Freedom” and “Liberty” were mantras that undergirded Patriot support for the military conflict with Britain. In this way, colonists who fought and died to untether the American colonies from British rule adapted the language that enslaved Africans used in their fight for emancipation. Enslaved people understood explicitly what hung in the balance: freedom from bondage. For the enslaved, freedom represented the rejection of the growing capitalist sentiment that the Revolution epitomized. They donned military uniforms and self-emancipated to claim freedom—and property rights in themselves.

For a copy of Dr. Hill Edwards’ essay and to receive the Zoom invitation, contact Sean Adams at spadams@ufl.edu. Reading the pre-circulated essay is not required, but it is recommended in order to facilitate discussion. For any questions, please contact Sean Adams at spadams@ufl.edu.