Laurence Fishburne reads a former slave's incredible letter to his old master

Summary

In this powerful letter from a former slave to his ex-master, the author expresses mixed feelings of relief and apprehension upon receiving an invitation to return. He recounts past mistreatment and the fear of retribution, while also detailing his current, improved circumstances with a stable income and education for his children. The letter concludes with a request for fair compensation for years of unpaid labor, reflecting a poignant struggle for justice and a better life.

Takeaways

• 📜 The letter is a response from a former slave to his old master, reflecting on their past relationship and current circumstances.
• 💌 The former slave expresses relief that his old master was not punished by the Yankees and is still alive.
• 🔫 There is a reference to past violence, with the former slave mentioning being shot at by his master.
• 🏡 The former slave expresses a desire to return to his old home and see familiar faces, indicating a sense of nostalgia.
• 💰 The letter discusses wages and the financial aspect of the former slave's life, showing a shift from a non-compensated laborer to a paid worker.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 The former slave has a family, with children attending school and showing potential for future careers, highlighting the importance of education.
• 🙏 There is a request for proof of kindness and justice from the old master, indicating a need for trust and security before considering a return.
• 📊 A detailed calculation of wages owed for years of service is presented, showing a clear expectation of compensation for past labor.
• 🏫 The former slave inquires about the availability of schools for colored children, emphasizing the importance of education for his offspring.
• ✉️ The letter ends with a request for a response that addresses concerns about safety and education, and a plea for the old master to acknowledge past wrongs.

Q & A

Who is the author of the letter?

The author of the letter is Jordan Anderson, a former slave.

To whom is the letter addressed?

The letter is addressed to Colonel pH Anderson, Jordan Anderson's old master.

What is the date of the letter?

The date of the letter is August 7th, 1865.

What does Jordan Anderson express about his old master's safety?

Jordan Anderson expresses relief and gladness that his old master is still alive and was not punished by the Yankees.

Why does Jordan Anderson mention the 'Yankees'?

He refers to the 'Yankees' as the Union soldiers who might have punished his old master for harboring slaves and attempting to kill a Union soldier.

What does Jordan Anderson want to know about his potential return to his old master's home?

He wants to know the specific 'good chance' or opportunities the old master proposes to offer him if he returns.

What is Jordan Anderson's current situation as described in the letter?

Jordan Anderson is living in Dayton, Ohio, earning $25 a month with food and clothing provided, has a comfortable home, and his family is attending school and church.

What does Jordan Anderson request from his old master to consider returning?

He requests his old master to send him the wages for the time he served, which he calculates to be $1,680, plus interest, deducting the cost of clothing and medical expenses.

What concerns does Jordan Anderson express about his daughters' safety?

He is concerned about the safety and potential mistreatment of his daughters, Millie and Jane, if they were to return to Tennessee.

What does Jordan Anderson seek for his children's future?

He seeks an education for his children and the formation of virtuous habits.

What does Jordan Anderson want to know about the conditions for colored children in his old master's neighborhood?

He wants to know if there have been any schools open for colored children in the neighborhood.