(A) From Hearth & Home to the Battle: Black Colonial Life in the Revolutionary Era in West & East Jersey

New Jersey was not only "The Crossroads of the Revolution" it was also where everyone was in the crosshairs during the Revolutionary War. Every resident here was torn in some manner. This especially pertained to Black folk living in the state who were often at odds with Patriotic fervor because of slavery. Still, many Black men wanted to fight for their freedom and were willing to join the state militia or Continental Army in hopes they could secure their freedom too. Others did not trust the Americans and took the British up on their pledge to grant freedom to all Black men who joined their cause. 

This program looks at Black life for both the enslaved and freedmen and how the calls for liberty spurred their desires for freedom. In addition, the program highlights the actions of Black soldiers who fought for American Independence or in some cases fought against it. 

Presented by Ellen Alford, author of Abolition and the Underground Railroad in South Jersey: Not Without a Fight from The History Press.