Welcome to DU!
The truly grassroots left-of-center political community where regular people, not algorithms, drive the discussions and set the standards.
Join the community:
Create a free account
Support DU (and get rid of ads!):
Become a Star Member
Latest Breaking News
General Discussion
The DU Lounge
All Forums
Issue Forums
Culture Forums
Alliance Forums
Region Forums
Support Forums
Help & Search
Mum Bett---civil rights activist, 1742-1829
Because I need a beacon of inspirstion on a dark day.
https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.biography.com/.amp/activist/mum-bett
Mum Bett (Elizabeth Freeman) was among the first slaves in Massachusetts to successfully sue for her freedom, encouraging the state to abolish slavery.
Mum Bett was born a slave circa 1742, spending her young adult years in the household of John Ashley in Massachusetts. When Ashley's wife attacked her, Betts appealed to a local abolitionist, who brought her case to the courts. Betts was granted her freedom and 30 shillings in damages in 1781, with the case Brom and Betts v. Ashley. Betts became a paid servant and raised a family on her wages. (More at link)