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"There were probably at least as many attempts at escape from slavery in the North America of the late 1600s and the 1700s, both individual and in groups, as in the 1800s when various forces, from the national Constitution to the local slave patrols, were all aligned to prevent escapes. While primary attention is given to the drama of slave escapes to the free states of the North and to Canada, there was also a flow of runaways into Spanish Florida and into Spanish Mexico and the subsequent Mexican Republic. Although the numbers escaping across the southern borders never threatened to destabilize slavery, there were very serious consequences for American diplomacy. Indeed, American foreign policy in the antebellum era was often driven by the need to secure the national borders and prevent slave escapes. The majority of assistance to runaways came from slaves and free blacks and the greatest responsibility for providing shelter, financial support and direction to successful runaways came from the organized efforts of northern free blacks. "

Cited from "http://www.nps.gov/nr/travel/underground/routes.htm"

Slaves escaping along the Ohio River learned that a lantern on the window sill meant a safe house was nearby. Ripley, Ohio became an important stop on the Underground Railroad. John Parker purchased his freedom in 1845.

Abolition - Most abolitionists want immediate emancipation. They demand the recognition of freedom for all Americans. Many slaves seek escape and travel along the Underground Railroad. Harriet Tubman leads over 300 slaves to freedom. (03:33)

Harriet Tubman - Harriet Tubman was born a slave and became a potent force in the abolitionist movement, leading fugitive slaves to the free north via her underground railroad. She promoted literacy among freed slaves to enable their true freedom. (01:32).

American Revolution Abolitionist Movement  - As Colonists agitated for freedom from British oppression, many saw the hypocrisy in their enslavement of others. The slave clause was stricken from the Declaration of Independence under pressure from Southern delegates in 1775. (04:06)

The Abolitionist Movement: Born in Boston - The African Meeting House is built in 1806. Mike Barnicle and experts discuss the fight for freedom in Boston. (3:58)

 and more.....