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Courtesy of the David M. Rubenstein Americana Collection
Courtesy of the David M. Rubenstein Americana Collection
An Address to the Inhabitants of the British Settlements, on the Slavery of the Negroes in America
Courtesy of the David M. Rubenstein Americana Collection

An Address to the Inhabitants of the British Settlements, on the Slavery of the Negroes in America

Artifact IDTL 2026.1.27
Object Type Temporary Loan
Date 1773
Author (American, 1745 - 1813)
Printer (American, 1747 - 1812)
Place MadePhiladelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
Medium pamphlet
DimensionsOverall W 4 5/8 in x D 7 1/4 in (11.7 cm x 18.4 cm )
Physical DescriptionThis 1773 pamphlet is the second edition of an influential anti-slavery tract written by prominent Philadelphia physician and revolutionary leader Benjamin Rush, published anonymously under the pseudonym "By a Pennsylvanian." Printed and sold by John Dunlap in Philadelphia, this edition includes a Vindication of the Address, written to counter a pro-slavery defense published by West India planters.



Historical NoteBenjamin Rush was considered the loudest voice confronting racial prejudice against free Blacks in Revolutionary America. His 1773 pamphlet is one of the first major antislavery writings in the colonies. In it, Rush uses moral, religious, and humanitarian arguments to condemn the slave trade and the institution of chattel slavery, challenging the colonies to reconcile their escalating demands for political liberty from Britain with the ongoing enslavement of African people. Ironically, Rush owned one enslaved person, a cook named William Grubber, who Rush bought from a sea captain.
Additional Details
Credit Lineon loan Courtesy of the David M. Rubenstein Americana Collection
National Archives Catalog CollectionJohn F. Kennedy Library Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 1676934)
National Archives Catalog SeriesPolitical Memorabilia (National Archives Identifier 1677287)
Use Restriction StatusRestricted - FullyUse Restriction NoteThe use of this image and document information is fully restricted. Reproduction in any manner is not allowed.
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