Waubonsee Community College

Though the heavens may fall, the landmark trial that led to the end of human slavery, Steven M. Wise

eng

Includes bibliographical references (pages 259-268) and index

contains biographical information

illustrations

index present

non fiction

Though the heavens may fall

bibliography

56913352

Steven M. Wise

"Perhaps no trial changed the course of history as much as one that took place in London in 1772: the case of James Somerset, a black man rescued from a ship bound for the West Indies slave markets. At this landmark trial, two encompassing worldviews clashed in an event of passionate drama and far-reaching significance." "Now noted legal historian Steven M. Wise recreates each moment of the case that slave owners contended would do nothing less than bring the economy of the British Empire to a crashing halt. In a narrative of Somerset's trial - and the slave trials that led up to it - Wise sets the stage for the extraordinary decision by the notoriously conservative judge, Lord Mansfield. That decision would set in motion the abolition of slavery in both England and the United States."--Jacket

the landmark trial that led to the end of human slavery

From Africa to Westminster Hall -- Black slaves in England -- Granville Sharp meets Jonathan Strong -- Granville Sharp, abolitionist -- John Hylas : the test -- The next test : Thomas Lewis -- Lord Mansfield -- Lewis v. Stapylton begins -- Sharp fails, again -- A struggle for the body of James Somerset -- Lord Mansfield is deceived -- Upon what principle is it that a man can become a dog for another man? -- Fluorishing away on the side of liberty -- The death of the joint opinion -- All we can do is declare the law -- The Mansfield judgment -- Versions of the Mansfield judgment -- Ripples of liberty -- Second thoughts? -- The beginning of the end of human slavery