Slavery in the South: A State-by-State History

Clayton E. Jewett · John O. Allen

Feb 2004 · Greenwood Publishing Group

About this ebook

Slavery in the United States is once again a topic of contention as politicians and interest groups argue about and explore the possibility of reparations. The subject is clearly not exhausted, and a state-by-state approach fills a critical reference niche. This book is the first comparative summary of the southern slave states from Colonial times to Reconstruction. The history of slavery in each state is a story based on the unique events in that jurisdiction, and is a chronicle of the relationships and interactions between its blacks and whites. Each state chapter explores the genesis, growth and economics of slavery, the life of free and enslaved blacks, the legal codes that defined the institution and affected both whites and blacks, the black experience during the Civil War, and the freedmen's struggle during Emancipation and Reconstruction.

The commonalities and differences can be seen from state to state, and students and other interested readers will find fascinating accounts from ex-slaves that flesh out the fuller picture of slavery state- and country-wide. Included are timelines per state, photos, numerous tables for comparison, and appendixes on the numbers of slaveholders by state in 1860; dates of admission, secession, and readmission; and economic statistics. A bibliography and index complete the volume.

Ratings and reviews

Clayton has completed the difficult task of handling an emotionally charged issue with thorough scholarly research. He presents documentation rather than stories which have been reinterpreted and passed down through time. His State by State approach brings a new freshness to this topic which is often surrounded by debate.

Worse book ever.