Assignment

You have been divided into two groups. For this forum, Group A (Last name A-M) will assume the role of an individual who supports immediate abolition, while Group B (Last name N-Z) will argue for gradual emancipation. Each of you should post a statement in support of your position or opposition to the other argument. Try not to make assumptions. Instead, assume the historical role of someone who lived in the United States in 1820s or 30s - you can be a real person (statesman, abolitionist, former slave) or a fictitious individual. Be creative - include complementary arguments such as land expansion, economics, African colonization movement, religion. The most sophisticated debates will take into account that slavery was a business and would have economic impact on the nation. You can argue based on moral reasons for eliminating slavery; however, this is just one place to start your debate.

After your initial submission, you are then required to continue the debate by responding to two of your classmates.

Minimum 250 words.

SOME of this debate took place when the U.S. Constitution was ratified and northern states crafted new state constitutions.

Radical Abolition of Slavery

Definition: "Radical" abolitionism is the belief that all forms of slavery should be stopped immediately, with full emancipation granted to slaves.