Running a Thousand Miles for Freedom; or, the escape of William and Ellen Craft from slavery   By: William Craft

In "Running a Thousand Miles for Freedom", William and Ellen Craft eloquently recount their harrowing experience of escaping slavery in the antebellum South. This captivating narrative sheds light on the egregious reality of slavery, while underscoring the indomitable human spirit that can resist even the most oppressive conditions.

From the very beginning, the Crafts draw readers into their world, providing vivid and often shocking descriptions of the daily hardships and humiliations they endured as enslaved individuals. By narrating their journey in a straightforward manner, they not only portray the brutality of slavery but also reveal their unwavering determination to regain their freedom.

The escape itself is a heart-pounding tale that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. William and Ellen craftily devise a plan in which Ellen, who passes as a white woman, poses as a master traveling with his enslaved servant, William. This ruse allows them to navigate perilous territory and face numerous close calls, evading suspicion time and time again. The risks they take and the sacrifices they make along the way are truly awe-inspiring.

Beyond the suspenseful escape, "Running a Thousand Miles for Freedom" also delves into the psychological toll that slavery exacts on both the enslaved and the slaveholders. The Crafts eloquently convey the torment of constantly living in fear – fear of being discovered, fear of being captured, and fear of losing one's life. Simultaneously, they expose the contradictions of slavery, offering a searing critique of the Southern institutions that simultaneously perpetuate and rely upon the oppressive system.

One of the most commendable aspects of this memoir is the Crafts' ability to maintain a steadfast and hopeful outlook amid the most dire circumstances. Their unyielding belief in the ultimate triumph of justice and freedom is both inspiring and a testament to the indescribable resilience of the human spirit. The authors' determination to share their story and expose the evils of slavery serves as a powerful indictment of the institution itself, demanding change and empathy from its readers.

"Running a Thousand Miles for Freedom" is a compelling memoir that not only sheds light on a dark chapter in American history but also serves as an enduring testament to the strength of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity. William and Ellen Craft's eloquent storytelling transports readers into their world, allowing them to experience their triumphs and tribulations as if they were their own. This is a book that will leave readers deeply moved, with a greater understanding of the dehumanizing effects of slavery, as well as a renewed sense of hope in the enduring power of love and resilience.

First Page:

This book is not intended as a full history of the life of my wife, nor of myself; but merely as an account of our escape; together with other matter which I hope may be the means of creating in some minds a deeper abhorrence of the sinful and abominable practice of enslaving and brutifying our fellow creatures... Continue reading book >>