William Lloyd Garrison: A Radical Voice Against Slavery

School Library Journal

Gr 4-8–Detailed and completely readable, these titles provide thoughtful examinations of an important era in American history. While the information is available elsewhere, these books stand out because they are accessible and engaging. The writing is lively, drawing readers into the drama of the anti-slavery movement, and the accompanying photographs, illustrations, maps, and primary-source reproductions combine with the texts to make a quality package.

Children's Literature - Danielle Williams

No one can doubt that Garrison was fiercely opposed to slavery. What is less well known is that outside of the realm of abolition, Garrison was a devoted family man, soft spoken and enamored of his wife and children. Garrison began his career in journalism as a typesetter working at the Newburyport Herald. He wrote his first editorial to the Herald, signing it "An Old Bachelor" and was encouraged to continue writing editorials by the owner of the Herald. However, Garrison quickly turned to more heated topics, voicing his opinion and refusing to compromise his beliefs and maintaining his vitriolic prose despite heated opposition. When he was fired from the Herald Garrison started his own newspaper, the Newburyport Free Press. A few years later, Garrison moved to Baltimore and began the newspaper he would become famous for publishing, The Liberator. Garrison did not limit his editorials to his newspaper but was a fierce advocate for abolition, participating in rallies and demonstrations and being arrested several times for attempting to incite riots. Though Garrison was a harsh critic of slavery, he abhorred violence and was opposed to using violent means to end slavery. His use of editorials and peaceful gatherings were an inspiration to proponents for change throughout history. This text is part of the "Voices for Freedom: Abolitionist Heroes" series. Reviewer: Danielle Williams