The Southern Debate over Slavery

"An exceptional volume. . . . From the material lives of free blacks and the evolving nature of proslavery thought to the cultural world of antebellum slaves and the mind of the planter class, these petitions provide information for the researcher, and illumination for the undergraduate."--Georgia Historical Quarterly "Elegant. . . will enhance historical debate and instigate further research. . . . Will help to produce a well-rounded study of slave law."--Stephanie L. Baker, North Carolina Historical Review "A landmark feat of historical discovery and retrieval. . . . A truly fascinating glimpse into the thoughts and personal conduct of otherwise obscure men and women of both races in the pre-emancipation south."--Civil War Book Review

Loren Schweninger is a professor emeritus of history and Elizabeth Rosenthal Excellence Professor at the University of North Carolina Greensboro. His books include Appealing for Liberty: Freedom Suits in the South.