Historical Research Library
Discover the people, events, and key documents that shaped the Founding Era.
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Phillis Wheatley’s Poem on Tyranny and Slavery, 1772
An eloquent condemnation of oppression and slavery, written for the British secretary of state for the colonies, showcasing Wheatley’s literary talent, and advocacy for freedom
Key Document
Founding the New-York Manumission Society, 1785
Establishing an organization to advocate gradual abolition of slavery, educate free Black people, and prevent them from being sold into slavery
Event
United States Constitution, 1788
A unique framework for a new government based on the idea of the consent of the governed
Key Document
Thomas Jefferson on Manumitting Slaves, 1789
Letter sent from Paris reflecting on freeing slaves—revealing his conflicting beliefs on liberty and equality amid the revolution
Supporting Document
The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano, 1789
Autobiography detailing Olaudah Equiano’s enslavement, his journey to freedom, and fight against the slave trade
Key Document
John Adams
A leading proponent of independence, a congressman, a diplomat, and the second President of the United States
Person
Richard Allen
Prominent Philadelphia advocate for abolition and civil rights and founder of the African Methodist Episcopal Church
Person
Paul Cuffe
Black and Wampanoag businessman and shipbuilder who advocated for abolition, civil rights, and African colonization
Person
Benjamin Franklin
A polymath and statesman who was a leading figure in science, literature, diplomacy, and governance
Person
Prince Hall
Founder of the first African American Masonic lodge, in Boston, and advocate for abolition and civil rights
Person
Lemuel Haynes
African American clergyman and Revolutionary War veteran known for his writings on racial equality
Person
Sally Hemings
Enslaved woman in the household of Thomas Jefferson, who was likely the father of her six children
Person