Speaker or author: Smith, J. B. (John B.), Rev., fl. 1852-1863
Newspaper or publication: Liberator
The speaker emphasized the desire for equal rights for the newly freed slaves. While he admitted to being surprised by the Emancipation Proclamation, he believed it was God's Will and that justice had finally prevailed. He denounced those who agreed with the Crittenden Compromise, and emphasized that the war was not caused by the abolitionists.
Description of file(s): PDF 1 page, 319 word document (text and image)
Speaker or author: Rock, John S. (John Sweat), 1825-1866
Newspaper or publication: Liberator
Speech given to celebrate the Emancipation Proclamation. The speaker rejoiced and offered thanks to all those who had sacrificed so much for this day.
Description of file(s): PDF 3 page, 790 word document (text and images)
Speaker or author: Nell, William C. (William Cooper), 1816-1874.
Newspaper or publication: Liberator
Speech given celebrating the Emancipation Proclamation and honoring those who fought for this glorious event. The speaker acknowledged the contributions of African American heroes of the Civil War, the American Revolution, and the long struggle for emancipation.
Description of file(s): PDF 3 page, 760 word document (text and images)
Speaker or author: Brown, William Wells, 1814?-1884
Newspaper or publication: Liberator
Overview of a speech in which the speaker provided examples of how slaves would be able to take care of themselves if freed. This was a rebuttal of the idea that the slaves would be incapable of caring for themselves if freed.
Description of file(s): PDF 3 page, 661 word document (text and images)