Black History

African American experiences and history are woven throughout the park's sites and stories. Check out these articles and videos and be inspired by themes of liberty, independence, and the power of family and community.

Looking for additional information about the paradox of liberty and enslavement at the President's House Site? We've got that, too!

 

 

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  Women of Suffrage: Frances E.W. Harper

  Learn about the women's suffrage movement through the eyes of Frances E.W. Harper, who fought for racial and gender equality.

  Duration:

  3 minutes, 20 seconds

 

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  James Forten

  Discover what "all men created equal" means to James Forten, a free African American abolitionist and wealthy Philadelphia business man.

  Duration:

  3 minutes, 37 seconds

 

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  The Fugitive Slave Hearings

  Discover how people accused of being fugitives from slavery were held for hearings on the second floor of Independence Hall.

  Duration:

  4 minutes, 15 seconds

 

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  "A Daring Escape" with Valerie Craigwell White

  Hear about how White's great-great-grandfather Reverend William Jackson helped free one of his parishioners from a return to slavery.

  Duration:

  3 minutes, 24 seconds

 

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  "Oral History" with Valerie Craigwell White

  Learn why oral history is important, especially within the African American community.

  Duration:

  3 minutes, 3 seconds