Master Slave Husband Wife: An epic journey from slavery to freedom - WINNER OF THE PULITZER PRIZE FOR BIOGRAPHY

The incredible true story of Ellen and William Craft, who escaped slavery in the South and made their way to the UK, Africa, and beyond, is told in the book Master Slave Husband Wife. They achieved this by posing as master and slave, and their adventure became a celebrity and generated headlines. They were not out of danger, however, and fled to England to embark on a new life.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 416 pages
Publication date: 16 May 2024
Publisher: Bonnier Books Ltd

The Incredible True Story of Ellen and William Craft

In 1848, a year of international democratic revolt, Ellen and William Craft achieved one of the boldest feats of self-emancipation in history. Posing as master and slave, while sustained by their love as husband and wife, they made their escape together across more than 1,000 miles, riding steamboats, carriages, and trains that took them from bondage in Georgia to the free states of the North. Along the way, they dodged slave traders, military officers, and even friends of their enslavers, who might have revealed their true identities. The tale of their adventure soon made them celebrities, and generated headlines around the country. Audiences could not get enough of this charismatic young couple, who traveled the country drawing thunderous applause as they spoke alongside some of the greatest abolitionists of the day.

But even then, they were not out of danger. With the passage of an infamous new Fugitive Slave Act in 1850, all Americans became accountable for returning refugees like the Crafts to slavery. Then yet another adventure began, as the Crafts fled to England to embark upon a new life. With three epic journeys compressed into one monumental bid for freedom, Master Slave Husband Wife recounts both a ground-breaking quest for liberty and justice, and an unforgettable love story.

The Escape from Slavery

Ellen and William Craft's escape from slavery was a daring and perilous journey. They had to navigate a complex web of laws, customs, and relationships, all while risking their lives. Ellen, who was enslaved in Georgia, disguised herself as a wealthy, disabled White man, while William posed as her slave. This allowed them to travel freely and avoid detection.

Their journey took them through several states, including Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas. They faced numerous challenges along the way, including being pursued by slave traders and encountering hostile people who did not understand their plight. However, their love and determination kept them going.

One of the most significant challenges they faced was crossing the Mississippi River. They had to use a makeshift raft to float down the river, which was dangerous and unpredictable. They were lucky to make it across without incident, but it was a harrowing experience that left them shaken.

Once they reached the free states of the North, they faced a new set of challenges. They had to find a way to survive and make a living in a society that was still deeply divided by slavery. They found work in factories and other industries, and eventually settled in Cincinnati, Ohio.

In Cincinnati, they became active in the abolitionist movement and worked tirelessly to raise awareness about the horrors of slavery. They also met other abolitionists, including Frederick Douglass and John Brown, who inspired them with their courage and determination.

Their story became widely known, and they were invited to speak at various events and conferences around the country. They also published their memoirs, which became a bestseller and helped to raise awareness about the abolitionist movement.

The Celebrities and the Abolitionist Movement

Ellen and William Craft's journey to freedom became a symbol of the abolitionist movement. They were celebrated as heroes and heroines, and their story inspired countless others to join the fight against slavery. They were invited to speak at events and conferences, and their memoirs were widely read and admired.

However, their celebrity status also brought them criticism and opposition. Some people accused them of being hypocrites, as they had once been enslaved and now were enjoying the benefits of freedom. Others criticized them for breaking the law and fleeing to England, where slavery was still legal.

Despite these criticisms, Ellen and William Craft remained committed to their cause. They continued to work for abolition and justice, and their story inspired generations of activists and abolitionists.

In conclusion, Ellen and William Craft's escape from slavery was a remarkable feat of self-emancipation and courage. Their journey to freedom was a testament to the human spirit's resilience and determination. Their story continues to inspire us today, and serves as a reminder of the importance of fighting for freedom and justice.

Weight: 312g
Dimension: 130 x 198 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781804184851