African American Plans for Revolt
Denmark Vessey
Denmark Vessey, a former slave who purchased his freedom, was the leader of a slave revolt that the city militia arrested for suspected plans to uprise. Vessel and his followers were said to be planning to kill slaveholders, liberate the slaves, and sail to the black republic of Haiti. No slave or official was killed. Denmark and five of his other men were hanged on July 2nd.
African Church Burned
Vesseys rebellion plans are leading to major anti-slavery protests. The African Church was burned and Charleston authorities further restricted the rights of slaves. Abolitionists are now using Vessey as a martyr and a symbol to represent the abolition movement. These two group continue to separate themselves further and further.