The Great Enslaved Emancipation Escape... Almost! (What Happened to Washington's Slaves)
George Washington, the man, the myth, the legend... who also owned a whole bunch of people. Awkward, right? We all know about the cherry tree and crossing the Delaware, but what about the folks who kept Mount Vernon running like a well-oiled (and frankly unpaid) machine? Buckle up, history buffs, because things get a touch more complicated than a bad wig and a wooden spoon.
 |
| What Happened To Washington's Slaves |
Freedom Fries, Anyone? Washington's Flip-Flopping Feels
Washington wasn't exactly a fan club president of slavery. Dude even wrote in his diary about wanting to abolish it (though maybe more like wanting to ditch the chores). Here's the hitch: he inherited slaves from his wife, Martha, and back then, returning borrowed human beings wasn't exactly a thing. So Washington ended up being a reluctant landlord to a whole lot of folks who probably wouldn't have signed a lease if they could read.
Tip: Break long posts into short reading sessions.
The Great Escape Clause (with a Martha-Sized Catch)
Finally, on his deathbed, Washington decided to free all the slaves HE owned in his will. Seems like a good dude move, right? Well, there's always a Martha-sized wrench in the works. Turns out, some of the enslaved people belonged to Martha's family, and that clause didn't apply. So, freedom for some, indentured servitude for others. Not exactly the fireworks finale Washington might have envisioned.
Tip: Reread tricky sentences for clarity.
Runaway Rhondeaus: When Legs Did the Talking
Now, our enslaved friends weren't exactly chilling by the Potomac waiting for their freedom papers. Many risked life and limb to escape. One such hero was Ona Judge, a young woman who hightailed it out of Mount Vernon when Martha tried to send her back to the South. History high five for Ona!
QuickTip: Slow scrolling helps comprehension.
 |
So, what's the takeaway? Washington's legacy on slavery is a mixed bag. He wrestled with the concept but never fully grappled with dismantling the system. His slaves, however, are a testament to the enduring human spirit, a constant reminder that even in the face of immense oppression, the fight for freedom burns bright.
Tip: Reread key phrases to strengthen memory.
How-To FAQ on Washington's Slaves
- How to learn more about Washington's slaves? Check out Mount Vernon's website! They have tons of resources dedicated to the enslaved people who lived and worked there.
- How to honor the fight for freedom? Support organizations working towards racial justice or learn more about Black history and celebrate Black excellence!
- How to avoid awkward silences at parties? Maybe skip the Washington-as-saint routine and focus on the fascinating stories of the enslaved people themselves.
- How to impress your friends with historical knowledge? Drop the Ona Judge fact at your next trivia night!
- How to time travel and free all the slaves? Unfortunately, that technology hasn't been invented... yet. But hey, a history buff can dream!
 |
