Sunday, April 14, 2013

April 14: First Abolitionist Society

On this date in history .... 1775:


The first abolitionist society is formed in Philadelphia with a very long name: The Society for the Relief of Free Negroes Unlawfully Held in Bondage. France-born founder Anthony Benezet began teaching slave children in his home in 1750, and in 1754 established the first girls school in America. In 1758, he convinced Quakers to take a stance against slavery. When he died in 1784, his funeral was attended by over 400 black Philadelphians. 

In 1787, Benjamin Franklin added prestige to the cause when he served as president of the organization.


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