Photo: Black History Heroes

Many know the story of Nat Turner, but he wasn't the only one shaking things up. David Walker was born in Wilmington, North Carolina to an enslaved father and free Black mother. By law, since his mother was free he was free. Even though he was legally free, his freedom did not shield him from the horrors of slavery. History records tell the story of Walker witnessing a young man being forced to whip his mother to death. Walker moved North and settled in Boston. While there he owned a used clothing shop and started writing for the first Black newspaper, Freedom's Journal. He became a well-known for speaking out against slavery and published a pamphlet entitled Appeal which spoke out against slavery, spoke of a better tomorrow and encouraged slaves to revolt.

"….they want us for their slaves, and think nothing of murdering us. . . therefore, if there is an attempt made by us, kill or be killed. . . and believe this, that it is no more harm for you to kill a man who is trying to kill you than it is for you to take a drink of water when thirsty," the pamphlet stated.

He used his business as a way to get the pamphlets from the north to the south. He sewed the pamphlets into the clothing of sailors who would, in turn, distribute the pamphlets while on their voyages to the south. Of course, slave owners were not happy about this popular pamphlet urging their slaves to revolt. They banned the pamphlet and put a bounty on his head promising $3,000 for his head and $10,000 if he was brought back to the South alive. Walker refused to flee despite the threat of death. He was found dead in his home after publishing his third edition. The cause of death is still unknown although many believe he was poisoned.

The list could definitely go on and on and on. These five unsung moments and figures are remarkable and hopefully unforgettable for you. Here's to black history month. Here's to pushing out real facts and not alternative ones. Happy BHM Blavity Fam!

cathay williams

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