John Brown an Extreme Abolitionist - 1452 Words

Jason Peterman History 128 12-7-10 Chris Carey John Brown: An Extreme Abolitionist John Brown’s beliefs about slavery and activities to destroy it hardly represented the mainstream of northern society in the years leading up to the Civil War. This rather unique man, however, took a leading role in propelling the nation toward secession and conflict. Many events influenced Brown’s views on slavery from an early age. When he was older, his strong anti-slavery feelings had grown, and he became an extreme abolitionist. His raid on Harpers Ferry was one of the first monumental events leading up to the civil war. When John Brown was young, he witnessed an attack on a young slave boy, who was beaten with a shovel. The boy died, and Brown†¦show more content†¦27). After he was captured, Brown was jailed. In most of his letters from jail, John Brown is attempting to comfort his family and friends and assure them that he has no regrets. He constantly mentions how happy he is, saying he fought for what he believed in. In a letter to E.B. of R.I., he s ays, â€Å"I do not feel conscious of guilt in taking up arms† (John Brown’s Raid on Harpers Ferry, pg. 91). Then, in a letter to Rev. H L Vaill, he says, â€Å"I am not as yet in the main at all disappointed. I have been a good deal disappointed as it regards myself in not keeping up to my own plans; but I now feel entirely reconciled to that even: for Gods plan, was Infinitely better† (John Brown’s Raid on Harpers Ferry, pg. 94). It is clear that Brown feels justified in his actions because he believes they were for the good of the country and enslaved people. Brown does not want his family and friends to feel bad for him, which is clear in the tone of his letters. His letters are upbeat, and he mentions how happy he is often. He is protective of his family’s feelings. In letters to others, he mentions his impending hanging, but when he writes to his wife, he calls death â€Å"my great change† (John Brown’s Raid on Harpers Ferry, pg . 98), as though death is honorable. Brown works hard in his letters to be sure that his family, especially his wife, cannot visit him. This may beShow MoreRelatedThe Battle Against Slavery During The 19th Century1342 Words   |  6 Pagesanti-slavery movement was John Brown’s raid on Harpers Ferry. John Brown was a white Abolitionist who lived during the time of debate over Kansas’ statehood. Brown had strong beliefs as a Christian and used these to drive his desires, and a movement, of freeing all slaves. In 1851, Brown started an anti-slavery group called the United States League of Gileadites, which consisted of Brown himself, his sons, escaped and free slaves, and other supporting white Abolitionists who chose to join him. 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