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Papers of Thomas Clarkson
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Draft of a speech, in Joseph Sturge's hand (?)

Notes that though the Emancipation of slaves has been granted, the slave trade still continues. Suggests that the way to end it is not to use force, but to make it unprofitable. Suggests that government should intervene to ensure that free immigration is possible and will become profitable. Discusses these issues especially in relation to the West Indies and the sugar trade.

Draft of a Speech given by Clarkson in Ipswich. In Clarkson's hand

States that, despite his old age and infirmity, he had to take the chair at the gathering as the abolition of slavery and the slave trade originated wholly with Clarkson and he feels that he cannot stop campaigning. Gives an idea of a slaves life, and also bemoans the fact that crimes committed against slaves carry no punishment.

Clarkson, Thomas (1760-1846) slavery abolitionist

Draft of a letter from Thomas Clarkson to the Emperor of Russia

Reminds Emperor of last two meetings and the Emperor's interest in the abolition of the slave trade. Details the violation of the recent treaty by the French in the continued use of their vessels in the slave trade and entreats the Emperor to use every means possible to influence the government of France in the forthcoming Congress.

Clarkson, Thomas (1760-1846) slavery abolitionist

Draft letter from Thomas Clarkson to country committees

Urges committees to send petitions to Parliament rather then postponing dispatch until the position of Ministers is made clear. Claims that petitions encourage and support ministers in the cause.

Clarkson, Thomas (1760-1846) slavery abolitionist

Draft article written by Thomas Clarkson in reply to a letter 'in the supplement to your journal of January 1790. . .' by Monsieur Mosneron de l'Auny

Clarkson states that an answer is 'fully authorised' as he is mentioned in M. de l'Auny's original letter. He takes issue with M. de l'Auny's three points; that slavery has always existed in Africa, that human sacrifice prevails there, and that Africa provides no opportunities for commerce. Clarkson points out that the mere existence of a practice does not provide for its justification. In an enlightened age such a barbarism as the slave trade is not morally right and should be abolished. He also notes that slaves not only are a tiny minority of the population in many parts of Africa, they are also treated much more humanely than those in French colonies. He dismisses the second point by arguing that the proof for such sacrifices is very tenuous. Even if it does exist, then it is surely the duty of enlightened people to promote civilisation and put an end to savage customs. Finally he dismisses the third notion by listing the many and varied products available in Africa. Clarkson also points out that the 14 men who provided the evidence for M de l'Auny's arguments have a vested interest in the continuation of the slave trade.

Clarkson, Thomas (1760-1846) slavery abolitionist

Document written in Thomas Clarkson's hand, entitled Short History of some of the most remarkable features on the character of the Slave Trade

Gives a brief history of the slave trade, how slaves are caught in Africa, the conditions they are shipped under and how they are sold in the West Indies. Intended for translation into Spanish but rendered unnecessary with the signing of a treaty between Spain and Britain. (Refers possibly to a treaty between Great Britain and Spain prohibiting the slave trade, signed in 1817).

Clarkson, Thomas (1760-1846) slavery abolitionist

Document entitled 'Substance of a Speech delivered By Thomas Clarkson, Esq. to a Public Meeting of the Inhabitants of Ipswich and its Vicinity, held at the Town Hall, on Tuesday, the 13th of December, 1825, on the Subject of British Colonial Slavery'

Speech outlines numbers, treatment and conditions of slaves. Notes that, as a consequence of public anti-slavery petitions in May 1823, Parliament has endeavoured to improve the conditions for slaves, but the colonies have refused to abide by these new regulations. Suggests further possible courses of action and finally recommends that a petition be raised supporting any measures Parliament think best to force the colonies to abide by the new laws. Includes annotation by Clarkson: 'Speech of mine on the subject of slavery'.

Diary of travels in the West Country and Wales

Gives description of travels and scenery, especially Bristol and surrounding area. Gives detailed account of visits to docks, investigation into shipping in Bristol and meeting with local luminaries to gather support for the abolition cause.

Clarkson, Thomas (1760-1846) slavery abolitionist

Copy of proclamations to his troops by Toussaint Louverture, in French

First proclamation gives a general exhortation to attribute the deliverance from slavery to God, and to cultivate religion and virtue and the laws of the Republic; detailed orders to improve the moral instruction and conduct of the troops with respect to not molesting the civil population. Second proclamation announces the complete evacuation of St. Dominique by the English and émigrés, a testimony to his own loyalty to France and the Republic. He recalls the army once more to render thanks to God, and to obey divine and civil laws to help restore tranquility to the country. Detailed requirements for religious observance are laid down.

'Copy of a note from George Poole,' once missionary in West Indies

States that he has read the book and agrees with its sentiments. Gives ideas on the practicalities of freedom for slaves. Also a note attached giving an account of discussions with Poole regarding the regular punishment meted out to slaves, how Poole avoided coming into contact with it and how regulations were flouted.

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