The large woodcut image of a slave in chains was originally adopted as the seal of the Society for the Abolition of Slavery in England in the 1780s and appeared on medallions made by Josiah Wedgwood as early as 1787. A popular image, it often appeared in anti-slavery publications. On this broadside of 1837, the image is coupled with "Our Countrymen in Chains," a famous poem by Quaker author John Greenleaf Whittier (1807-1892). Among his many anti-slavery publications was an entire volume, Poems Written During the Progress of the Abolition Cause in the United States (1837). In 1833 Whittier acted as secretary of the Anti-Slavery Convention at Philadelphia and was one of the committee that drafted its declaration of principles.
"Our Countrymen in Chains" John Greenleaf Whittier, Author New York: Anti-Slavery Office, 1837 Broadside Rare Book and Special Collections Division (54 - Smithsonian Museum)
John Woolman on poverty and oppression
Until his death in 1772, John Woolman was in the forefront of the opponents to slavery in America. He also worked for justice for Native Peoples and had a concern for the poor. Then, as now, others saw other issues such as the freedom of the marketplace as more pressing than social injustice.
"Oppression in the extreme appears terrible; but oppression in more refined appearances remains to be oppression; and where the smallest degree of it is cherished, it grows stronger and more extensive. To labour for a perfect redemption from this spirit of oppression is the great business of the whole family of Christ Jesus in this world."
- John Woolman, A Plea for the Poor, published posthumously in 1793 as A Word of Caution and Remembrance to the Rich.
Added 9th Month 5, 1998
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