The Language of Natural Rights in Freedom Petitions: Black People’s Fight for Freedom and Abolition of Slavery.After reading the two short primary source documents listed below, construct an essay based on the following question: How and why did black people use the language of the American Revolution—of natural rights—in freedom petitions to argue for their freedom and the abolition of slavery?

QUESTION

After reading the two short primary source documents listed below, construct an essay based on the following question:

How and why did black people use the language of the American Revolution—of natural rights—in freedom petitions to argue for their freedom and the abolition of slavery?

Primary Source Documents
Your essay should be based on your reading and analysis of the primary source documents. Your paper should be 2 to 3 pages in length and use double-spacing and 12 point font. Please use MLA style.

Petition of Slaves in Boston, Province of Massachusetts Bay by Felix
Freedom Petition of Prince Hall

ANSWER

 The Language of Natural Rights in Freedom Petitions: Black People’s Fight for Freedom and Abolition of Slavery

Introduction

The American Revolution and its principles of natural rights served as a powerful framework for enslaved black individuals to assert their freedom and advocate for the abolition of slavery. This essay examines how and why black people employed the language of the American Revolution, emphasizing natural rights, in freedom petitions. By analyzing the primary source documents, namely the “Petition of Slaves in Boston, Province of Massachusetts Bay” by Felix and the “Freedom Petition of Prince Hall,” we can gain insights into the strategies and motivations behind their use of revolutionary rhetoric.

The Petition of Slaves in Boston

The “Petition of Slaves in Boston” was submitted in 1773 by Felix, an enslaved black man, to the Massachusetts General Assembly. The language employed in this petition reflects a clear adoption of the language and ideals of the American Revolution. Felix appeals to the notion of natural rights by invoking the “inalienable rights” bestowed upon all individuals, including the enslaved, by their Creator. He argues that the principles of liberty and equality proclaimed during the Revolution should extend to all, regardless of their race or status as slaves. By framing their plea in the language of natural rights, Felix and other enslaved individuals sought to highlight the inherent contradiction between the revolutionary ideals of freedom and equality and the institution of slavery.

Freedom Petition of Prince Hall

The “Freedom Petition of Prince Hall” was submitted in 1777 by Prince Hall, a prominent African American abolitionist and Freemason. This petition demonstrates a similar utilization of the language of natural rights. Hall emphasizes the inherent dignity and worth of every individual, emphasizing that no person should be subjected to bondage. He asserts that the principles of the American Revolution should be applied universally, regardless of one’s skin color. By drawing upon the rhetoric of natural rights, Hall challenges the legitimacy of slavery and underscores the moral imperative to abolish it.

Motivations and Significance

The use of the language of natural rights in freedom petitions by black people was motivated by several factors. Firstly, it allowed them to align their struggle for freedom with the ideals and principles espoused during the American Revolution, thereby appealing to the sense of justice and equality that permeated revolutionary discourse. By employing this language, black individuals sought to expose the contradiction between the ideals of the Revolution and the continued enslavement of a significant portion of the population.

Furthermore, the use of revolutionary rhetoric aimed to engage white colonists who supported the cause of independence and the principles of natural rights. Black individuals strategically utilized these principles to demand their own liberation, challenging the inconsistencies and hypocrisy within the revolutionary movement.

In conclusion, black people effectively utilized the language of the American Revolution and its emphasis on natural rights in freedom petitions to assert their rights, advocate for their freedom, and call for the abolition of slavery. By aligning their struggle with the revolutionary ideals, black individuals sought to challenge the contradictions and moral inconsistencies of a nation that simultaneously fought for liberty and perpetuated the institution of slavery. Their use of this language demonstrates a keen understanding of the power of rhetoric and the potential of the revolutionary principles to effect change in society. Through their petitions, black people contributed to the broader discourse on human rights and laid the foundation for future abolitionist movements.