Synopses & Reviews
When Solomon Northup, born a free black man in Saratoga, New York, was offered a short-term job with a circus in Washington, D.C., in 1841, he jumped at the opportunity. But when he arrived, he was kidnapped and sold into slavery in Louisiana. Finally, with the help of a Canadian abolitionist, he was rescued and reunited with his family in New York. In this memoir published in 1853, Northup tells the incredible story of his 12 years as a slave.
Lexile score: 1200L
Synopsis
A testimony of personal strength and a telling portrait of American slavery in the pre-Civil War South.
When Solomon Northup, born a free black man in Saratoga, New York, was offered a short-term job with a circus in Washington, D.C., in 1841, he jumped at the opportunity. But when he arrived, he was kidnapped and sold into slavery in Louisiana. Finally, with the help of a Canadian abolitionist, he was rescued and reunited with his family in New York. In this memoir published in 1853, Northup tells the incredible story of his twelve years as a slave.
About the Author
Born free, African American Solomon Northup (18081857) was kidnapped in 1841 and sold into slavery in the American South, where he spent 12 years in captivity. He regained his freedom in 1853 and published an autobiography about his experience.