Explore the uncomfortable truth that, as Newburyport debated concepts of freedom and independence on the eve of Revolution, a significant number of Americans were not free. Thousands of African Americans were enslaved, up to 20% of the entire population of the colonies. In Newburyport, Black voices spoke up forcefully for their liberty and equality amid the revolutionary fervor, and helped turn the tide in Massachusetts against slavery. Some white revolutionaries bitterly characterized themselves as “slaves” of Great Britain and King George in Newburyport newspapers. “I need not point out the absurdity of your exertions for liberty, while you have slaves in your houses,” formerly enslaved man Caesar Sarter fired back.

Join a panel of noted scholars for a discussion of how Newburyport grappled with the promise and paradox of independence.

Funded, in part, by the Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism