National Black Conventions and the Quest for African American Freedom and Progress, 1847-1867

Abstract

Through times of uncertainty, difficulty and hope, national black conventions represented conscientious self-help efforts to eradicate slavery and ameliorate the condition of free blacks. Concern over the status of blacks in the United States and black participation in the abolitionist movement was the impetus behind the national black convention movement. Between 1847 and 1864, at least five national conventions were held, during which free black delegates and leaders openly discussed the plight of African-Americans. Three major issues—the eradication of slavery, establishing a firm base in America while securing civil rights and emigration, in an attempt to acquire freedoms elsewhere—mainly plagued blacks at that time. The purpose of this work is to provide insight on the free black efforts to address these issues during the period mentioned.