David Walker's Appeals

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David Walker's Appeals

As I read David Walker's Appeals, I notice this final edition was published by Black Classic Press. Webster's dictionary defines a classic as "having lasting significance or worth; enduring." Under these terms, I would have to disagree. Despite great efforts of both the North and South to stop its publication, David Walker's Appeal became one of the most widely read and circulated books ever written by a black person. Walker was considered a hero by most abolitionists, who considered his book the boldest attack ever written against slavery. It had significant effects on race relations in 1829 America.

However, as we enter the 21st century, David Walker's book appeals to very few.

One theme found lingering in Walker's appeals is religion. It's obvious Walker's route to literacy was through the Bible. The appeals are immersed with citations form the Old and New Testaments. Much of his argument also deals with God in examining the actions of The Christians (Whites). Article III., Our Wretchedness in Consequence of the Preachers of the Religion of Jesus Christ, delves into the actions of the whites and how it contradicts with their so-called beliefs. He wonders how slave owners can murder blacks on Saturday and go to church on Sunday like nothing happened.

"Have not the Americans the Bible in their hands? Do they believe it? Surely they do not.

See how they treat us in open violation of the Bible!!"

Another issue throughout his Appeals i...

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