Many abolitionists, including Nat Turner, Denmark Vesey, Harriet Tubman, and Sojourner Truth, had certain key elements in common. To start, while these formerly enslaved people generally had little access to God’s written word, they were still active listeners and determined for themselves how to interpret stories they believed held the key to their salvation. They also provided hope and inspiration to future abolitionists. What else do they have in common?

Prepare for class discussion by responding to these questions. Write your answers on your own paper. 

• What was the source of their religious motivation?
• How did they connect to inherited African traditions?
• Who did they feel responsible for?
• What role did they believe God had in store for them?
• How did they use the power of oration and dialogue?