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What did it mean to be free in antebellum America? Who was free, and in what...

What did it mean to be free in antebellum America? Who was free, and in what ways? Was anyone free?  

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Antebellum America refers to the period in American history between the civil war and the war of 1812. This was the period of economic growth due to the political influence on US government and heavy dependence on slavery. It was also the time when abolition was on rise. The abolitionist movement started during this period. There were measures taken to abolish slavery or to gradually reduce it.

Free black was a status given to black slaves who were born free or were freed slaves. Not all American Africans were slaves, some were free men who worked as sailors on ships, some were contractual labors who were freed after a particular period of time. Though they were considered free they were looked upon as an inferior race who were born to serve. They could not enter many professions such as medical and law. They could have jobs like helpers to barbers, carpenters, blacksmiths etc. Some could become landowners, who purchased their family members to protect them till they were set free.

The living conditions of the free black were not good. They were never treated as equals to the whites. They lived in segregated houses, in black neighborhoods. Poverty, crime and alcoholism were rampant in these areas. They did not have access to churches and schools. They were never really free as they did not get equal status nor opportunities or freedom enjoyed by the whites.

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