David Walker’s Appeal in Four Articles with a Preamble to the Coloured Citizens of the World (1829)
DOCUMENT ANALYSIS QUESTIONS (Make sure to address each one in your essay)
1) Identify the authors who argue that slavery is a positive institution. What are their key arguments in defense of slavery?
Which, if any, of these arguments have merit? Explain your position. Do not quote the documents but take their main idea and put it into your own words.
2) Identify the authors who reject slavery. Characterize their position as moderate, reasonable, militant or radical. Were their actions and words necessary or not for slavery to end? Explain and support your choices.
Do not quote the documents but take their main idea and put it into your own words.
3) Do you agree or disagree with Henry David Thoreau’s position (Document F) on civil disobedience concerning slavery?
Under what conditions do you think that civil disobedience is justified? Explain. Do not quote the documents but take their main idea and put it into your own words.
4) Should the radical abolitionists be blamed for the secession of the Southern states from the Union and for the Civil War, or praised for bringing slavery to an end? Explain.
HOW TO PREPARE AND SUBMIT YOUR ESSAY
The student’s essay is to be:
At least a full two-page paper in length with 1-inch margins.
12-point font and Times New Roman
Double spaced
