Challenges and Contributions of Free Blacks

The video discusses the historical context of free blacks and slavery in 1860, highlighting the interconnectedness of free blacks with enslaved individuals. It explores the perspectives of black children on slavery and the significant efforts made by free blacks to abolish slavery, including personal sacrifices and participation in the Underground Railroad. The video also examines the impact of the Fugitive Slave Law, which imposed severe penalties on those aiding fugitive slaves, emphasizing the courage of individuals who risked their lives to help others.

In 1860, how many free blacks were there in the United States?

• Four million

• Two million

• Half a million

• One million

What was the primary concern of the eight-year-old black child in Cincinnati in 1840?

• Education

• Freedom for a cousin in slavery

• Economic prosperity

• Political rights

Who was Free Frank and what was his contribution to the abolition movement?

• A slave who escaped via the Underground Railroad

• A politician advocating for abolition

• A free black farmer who helped relatives escape slavery

• A writer documenting slave narratives

What did many free blacks do to help their enslaved family members?

• Petitioned the government

• Raised money to buy their freedom

• Wrote letters to newspapers

• Organized protests

What was the nature of the Underground Railroad?

• An informal network of people helping fugitive slaves

• A series of underground tunnels

• A government-funded program

• A formal organization with membership cards

What was the impact of the Fugitive Slave Law of 1850?

• It allowed slaves to vote

• It abolished slavery in the North

• It made it illegal to help fugitive slaves

• It provided financial aid to free blacks

How did the Fugitive Slave Law of 1850 affect free people?

• It required them to assist in capturing fugitive slaves

• It allowed them to own slaves

• It provided them with voting rights

• It granted them land in the West

What risk did people face when helping fugitive slaves after 1850?

• Deportation

• Public shaming

• Imprisonment and fines

• Loss of property

What was a common motivation for free blacks to participate in the Underground Railroad?

• Financial gain

• Religious duty

• Abolition of slavery

• Political influence

What was a significant challenge for free blacks in the North regarding their enslaved relatives?

• Difficulty in raising funds for their freedom

• Inability to travel

• Political restrictions

• Lack of education