David Walker

David Walker’s Appeal is a landmark work of American history which was written by an African American slave during the nineteenth century. David Walker’s Appeal arguably the most radical of all anti- slavery documents, caused a great stir when it was published in September of 1829 calling for slaves to revolt against their masters. The piece of work exposed white racism and gave inspiration to abolitionists in hopes that one day change would come. David Walker’s Appeal which consisted of four articles explored many factors which he believed contributed to the “wretchedness” of the blacks including slavery, religion, ignorance, and the colonizing plan. Throughout David Walker’s piece of work he makes many religious references showing that he is a strong and devout Christian who believes deeply in his faith. Walker emphasizes that the only true master is Lord Jesus Christ. He goes on to explain that we are all created by the same God, therefore we are equal and that no man is “superior” or more worthy than another. With this said he poses the question what gives the white man the right to enslave a black man ? David Walker urges the slaves to remain strong and stay true to their fate. Throughout his writings he also points out to them that they are Gods children and that they should not allow or accept the treatment that they are receiving from their white masters. Walker expresses his anger because he knows the white people witness the cruelty that the slaves face but no one speaks up against it. He also leaves them with the message that God loves them and that through hope and prayer they one day will seek freedom. Along with religion Walker believed that ignorance was one of the main contributions to the “wretchedness” of the blacks. In this article Walker addresses the ignorance white men and other cultures have toward slavery and the black people on general. Walker also states that the ignorance of political leaders such as Thomas Jefferson has greatly