What Did David Walker Think About Slavery?

David Walker was an impassioned abolitionist who unequivocally condemned slavery, viewing it as a grave injustice that contradicted fundamental moral and political principles. He believed slavery was a heinous institution that demanded immediate and widespread opposition.

Walker's Core Arguments Against Slavery

Walker's powerful critique of slavery was rooted in two primary pillars: Christianity and the Declaration of Independence.

1. Violation of Christian Principles

Walker fervently argued that slavery was in direct opposition to the core tenets of Christianity. He believed that the enslavement of human beings was an ungodly act that defied the divine will and the moral teachings of the Bible, which he interpreted as advocating for human dignity, equality, and freedom. For Walker, the Christian faith demanded justice and compassion, making slavery an inherently immoral practice.

2. Contradiction of American Ideals

He also highlighted the profound hypocrisy of slavery in a nation founded on the principles of liberty and equality. Walker contended that the institution of slavery flagrantly violated the Declaration of Independence's promise that "all men are created equal" and endowed with unalienable rights to "Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness." He saw slavery as a betrayal of America's foundational ideals, rendering the nation's claims of freedom hollow while millions remained in bondage.

Spreading His Message: The "Appeal"

Walker articulated his fiery abolitionist sentiments most famously in his 1829 pamphlet, Appeal to the Colored Citizens of the World. This groundbreaking work was not merely a theoretical critique; it was a powerful call to action designed to awaken and empower Black people across the globe.

Key aspects of his approach:

• Broad Distribution: Following its publication, Walker actively pushed for the widespread distribution of his pamphlet.
• Target Audience: He aimed to get his message into the hands of both free African Americans and, crucially, enslaved people themselves, often at great risk.
• Inspiration for Action: The Appeal urged Black people to recognize their inherent worth and to resist oppression, promoting a sense of racial pride and a demand for freedom and justice.

Through his unwavering conviction and his influential writings, David Walker left an indelible mark on the abolitionist movement, inspiring future generations of activists to fight for the complete eradication of slavery.

Summary of Walker's Stance

Here's a concise overview of David Walker's perspective on slavery: