Background on Abolitionism
In the 19th century, the abolitionist movement brought together activists, religious leaders, and politicians in a collective effort to end the evil institution of slavery. The movement saw countless heroes like Harriet Tubman, Sojourner Truth and John Brown, and abolitionists advocated for their cause in both the legal sphere and through the press. Mark Twain is often thought of a part of this movement, and his legacy as an abolitionist still carries into the 21st century.
Mark Twain’s Commentary on Slavery
In his writing, Mark Twain often touched on the subject of slavery. In his writing about the Civil War, for instance, Twain discusses the aftermath of the struggles that African Americans faced as they dealt with their newfound freedom. In his works, Twain shows his support of the abolitionist movement in various ways, even if he isn’t always explicit in his work. While he was known for his sarcastic humour and striking wit, Twain’s views on slavery and racism gave it a greater depth.
Benjamin Lundy and the Genius of Chestnut Street: Connections to Twain
Benjamin Lundy, one of the most prominent figures of the antebellum abolitionist movement, was amongst the first to popularize concepts such as boycotting the sale of slave-produced goods. Others such as David Asa Phillips and Caton Shuttlesworth later took his lead by collaborating with an unlikely comrade, Thomas Fuller. The Genius of Chestnut Street was an actual organization existing in Twain’s lifetime, derived from this abolitionist circle, and is connected to The Adventures of Tom Sawyer. Twain was known to often visit and be in the company of Phillips and Shuttlesworth, as he sought to learn and better understand the complex nature of the movement.
Twain and his Writing Effect on Abolitionism
While many of his most famous works like Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn are seen as widely humorous works of literature, many of Twain’s works contain underlying themes of racism and abolitionism. Drawing the attention of many readers to these topics with his writing, Twain was able to make a meaningful impact on the public’s opinion and understanding of slavery. Additionally, experts suggest that Twain’s advocacy of abolitionism in his writing was not just limited to adults, but was also just as significant to children, who were oftentimes more receptive to his views.
Twain and the Practice of Slavery in America
Though Twain’s pro-abolition writing is often the primary focus of his legacy, readers must recognize that Twain was writing during a period when the practice of slavery was still legal in the United States. In his writings, Twain engages with these legal issues in a number of ways. His novel Adventures of Huckleberry Finn contains several memorable quotes that support the abolitionist cause, such as when Huck declares “All right, then, I’ll go to hell” in order to free Jim from slavery.
Living Life as Abolitionists
Though Mark Twain is most commonly remembered for his writing, his role as an abolitionist during his lifetime cannot be overlooked. Even during his travels, Twain encountered situations and made decisions that reflected his commitment towards the cause. For instance, during a fifteen-month tour of the Mediterranean, Twain and a group of friends made a brave political statement when they chose to boycott the slave-owned stores in Palestine and instead shop in those owned by freed slaves.
Twain and the Abolition Movement Post-Civil War
Though slavery was illegal in the United States after the Civil War, many areas in the nation continued to practice what amounted to a “de facto” slavery. As a result, many of the former slaves did not view their lives as free, and needed continued support from abolitionists. Twain used his experience with the movement during the antebellum period to contribute towards the support of former slaves, advocating for policies that assisted both freed slaves and those currently enslaved.
Twain’s Contributions to Activism
Mark Twain is remembered for his literary contributions as well as his activism. He advocated for workers’ rights and for women’s suffrage, participating in parades and rallies alongside abolitionists. Twain’s legacy as an abolitionist demonstrates how one person’s actions can generate meaningful change, and is an example to many aspiring activists of the power of an individual to make the world a better place.
Twain and Religion
Not only was Twain staunchly opposed to the institution of slavery, his views expanded to include an opposition to the idea of religious oppression. In Twain’s novel “Innocents Abroad”, he expresses disdain for the practice of religious persecution and its close ties to slavery. His reflections on this period of time demonstrate the connections between ensuring freedom of religious practice and freedom from slavery.
Twain and his Lasting Legacy
Twain will forever be remembered as one of the great American authors, but his legacy extends far beyond the scope of his writing. Twain’s tireless advocacy of the abolitionist movement has been credited as helping to accelerate the movement’s progress, and ushered in a new era of thought and discourse in America.
Twain and Pop Culture
In the decades since his death, Twain’s influence has extended beyond the literary and into the realm of popular culture. Many modern films and television series such as Django Unchained, Underground and The Man in the High Castle that discuss themes of slavery and abolitionism in a modern context cite or reference Twain’s works as an influence.
Twain and the Impact on the Modern Abolitionist Movement
Twain’s advocacy of abolitionism has served as inspiration and guidance for many of the modern abolitionists. His commitment to the cause has inspired many to continue fighting for freedom and justice, both at home and abroad. While his legacy as an influential author will remain, Twain’s commitment and involvement in the movement reinforces his reputation as a defender of freedom and justice.
