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12 Years A Slave By Solomon Northup

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In the book 12 Years a Slave, Solomon Northup describes his experience in slavery. Solomon was born a free man. He lived in New York with his wife and three children. In March of 1841 Solomon was kidnapped and sold to a slave trader named James H. Burch. Burch brutally beats Solomon for stating that he is a free man. Solomon was sold into slavery and remained a slave in the Deep South for twelve years. He worked hard to refrain from being wiped by his masters. Solomon came across a man named Bass from Canada. Bass assisted him in gaining his freedom by sending a letter for help. He finally regained his freedom and was reunited with his family in 1853. Solomon Northup shares his interesting story by informing the reader the truth about slavery. Some individuals may believe that Solomon’s story is exaggerated, the reader can use the evidence in the book to determine their own opinion. Solomon does not comment on his views on slavery. He feels that others are entitled to develop their own views by the details in this story. It is important for the reader to take into consideration his time as a free man. This gives the reader an opportunity to recognize his appreciation to freedom. …show more content…
Solomon Northup’s story is an important piece of history, and he does an excellent job of telling his story. Some readers may be able to relate to this book, or might know somebody that can. Others may not have any relation to his story but can now get a better understanding on slavery and how they were treated. It is hard to believe that a man can be born free and lose his freedom in one day. This book is an eye opener and makes the reader recognize how far America has come. Solomon is not trying to persuade the reader to believe that slavery is terrible. He simply gives them the chance to see it for themselves. Solomon Northrup successfully uses his life story to inform readers the harsh truth of what he and many others went

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