The Past Occurrences Of African Americans - 1202 Words

Throughout the past occurrences of African Americans, several recurring themes are prevalent. These themes shape their past and signify patterns that may be correlated to other topics in history. Trial and error proved highly pervasive in the history of African Americans as much of their progression in society stemmed from several unsuccessful attempts that eventually resulted in victory. Slave revolts, pleas for emancipation, and bids for equal rights were never initially successful when they involved violence. Each early attempt failed quite miserably, however, those who persevered learned from past failures of violent displays, and eventually found success if they were to approach it appropriately. From its conception, the horrific†¦show more content†¦The successful uprising sent waves of hope throughout the United States, in hopes that similar success would be experienced. However, many never developed, or failed before fruition. This theme continued well beyond the era of Haitian inspired riots. One of the most famous rebellions, Nat Turner’s Insurrection, proved just that. Turner, a Virginian slave, alleged he had biblical visions that incited him to believe God â€Å"called on him to lead a rebellion† (Clayborne 173). On August 22, 1831, He led a rebellion with â€Å"sixty avenging slaves† (Clayborne 174) first overtaking his master, then moved onto the town of Jerusalem, mercilessly killing fifty-five civilians. Shortly thereafter, his militia was overthrown by the White forces. Turner actually evaded them for over a month, but eventually was found and executed. Turner’s rebellion shocked slaveholders, and resulted in tighter restricti ons on slaves. Free and enslaved African Americans were barred from spreading the gospel to prevent such a religiously affiliated rebellion like Nat Turner’s. In the United States, a slave-led rebellion would not be possible. With each attempt, the slaves would inevitably be overpowered with each attempt, resulting in failure. They knew if they were to ever be freed from slavery, it would need to by other means. After the realization that fruitless violent rebellions accomplished nothing, Blacks in America turned to political methods