![]() Why should grown-ups get all the historical, scientific, athletic, cinematic, and artistic glory?Ĭhoosing exemplars from both past and present, Mitchell includes but goes well beyond Alexander the Great, Anne Frank, and like usual suspects to introduce a host of lesser-known luminaries. The accessible narrative, clear context, and intricately recorded details of the lives of the enslaved provide much-needed understanding of the complexities and contradictions of the country’s founding. ![]() Ona Judge’s determination to maintain control over her life will resonate with readers. Dunbar, whose adult version of this story was a National Book Award finalist, and co-author Van Cleve have crafted a compelling read for young people. Despite poverty and hardship, Ona Judge remained free, thwarting the most powerful man in America. In 1796, Martha Washington decided to give Ona as a wedding present to her granddaughter-but Ona made her escape by ship to Portsmouth, New Hampshire, setting up years of attempts by allies of Washington to return Ona to slavery. The Washingtons chose to rotate their enslaved out of the state to maintain ownership. “The criteria were clear: obedient, discreet, loyal slaves, preferably of mixed race.” After the seat of government moved to Philadelphia, the Washingtons were subject to the Gradual Abolition Act, a Pennsylvania law that mandated freedom for any enslaved person residing in state for more than six months. When George Washington was elected president, it was up to Martha to decide who among their enslaved would go with them. Ona Judge was the daughter of a white indentured servant, Andrew Judge, and an enslaved woman, Betty, on the Mount Vernon plantation, growing up to become Martha Washington’s personal maid. ![]() A young enslaved woman successfully escapes bondage in the household of George and Martha Washington. ![]()
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