Introduction
In the 1840s and 1850s slavery, was a real issue in American society. During that time slave labor, fueled the growth of towns, businesses, and industries. Slavery was crucial to the survival of the economy, and any attempts to disrupt the status quo were often dealt with quickly. It did not stop the slaves form fighting for their freedoms. It led to the creation of various movements that were advocating for emancipation.
Benton Democrats
One such movement was the Benton democrats, where B. Gratz. Brown was a member. The faction and other people of like mind wanted the gradual process of emancipation to be executed. Such groups gave valid reasons which were met with opposition. Some of the opposing people came from St. Louis. They offered various arguments in support of the institution of slavery.
Firstly, they stated that they feared that if emancipation were forced, it would, in turn, separate them from the south (Brown). The people in Missouri did not want their relationship with the southern states to be broken. All the southern states had distinct traits. People owned enormous tracts of land, and they all practiced slavery. The northern states were the total opposite of the south. It is because most of the states had decided on the abolition of slavery. It set them apart from other lands, a position the people in St. Louis did not want.
Secondly, they were against the end of slavery because it would interfere with the beneficent influence they enjoyed (Brown). It should be noted that St. Louis people praised the institution of slavery. As it advances their lineage and own self-interests. Slavery in the region would continue to increase as it dropped in other places. It gave them pride that their system was much more effective.
Thirdly they argued that their labor is the same as the free white citizen labor and should be protected by the government (Brown). Toil is perceived to be someone’s property and a gift given to humans by god. The capability forms the basis of all property rights that are enjoyed by people. Labor ensured that people do not die from hunger and can survive in the world. As a result, some of the people would have a negative opinion towards emancipation.
Fourthly, the people were against emancipation as it would lead to the rise of race questions, which no one was willing to answer. Pastor Elliot’s congregation was predominantly white and did not take likely an issue of race. They feared that such matters would only disrupt the ongoing of society and divide the church (Eliot).
Fifthly they propagated the notion that black people and white people are not equal, and therefore, slavery should not be abolished (Conlin). It was their opinion that when the blood of a black person mixes with that of a white person, it may lead to serious health problems. It is a position that is scientifically not true. In addition to this, they stated that the offspring between a black person and a white person is against the laws of nature.
Sixthly, they stated that the liberation movement did not enjoy any support from the people in the society and thus should fail (Conlin). They believe that the over five million non-slave owners were not pro emancipation. In addition to this, they stated that even the slaves themselves did not support their freedom.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 1840s was a very important time to America. it was faced with the matter of abolition of slavery. It created a division in the nation. One side of the divide advocated for emancipation, while the other was against it. Both factions gave justifications, but in the end, both the northern and southern states abolished slavery.
