Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl, Written By Herself

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Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl, which was first published in 1861, was one of the first slave narratives penned by a woman. The book tells the story of Harriet Jacobs (1813-1897), a slave from North Carolina who suffered greatly (along with her family) at the hands of her ruthless owner. After several failed attempts to escape, Harriet eventually made her way north. Her journey, which involved years of hiding, was incredibly slow. She did finally reach her destination, however, and was even reunited with her children.

Harriet’s book is a testimony to the truth of her words that, though slavery was terrible for men, it was even worse for a woman. Due to the Fugitive Slave Law of 1850, she was not protected from recapture even after her escape. Her book provides an eloquent recital of the suffering slavery brings, from unkept promises to broken families, whippings, beatings, and burnings. The entire narration, including stories of masters selling their own children, is recounted with both precise detail and angry indignation.

The story of her master’s pursuit of her (which started when she was 15), his abuse, and her a hair-raising escape is a remarkable testimony to her strength, courage, and the resilience of the human spirit.