The Narrative of Sojourner Truth
Sojourner Truth 1850
This life story, dictated to Olive Gilbert, follows a woman born into slavery in New York. One episode follows her court fight to recover her young son after he was illegally sold south.
128 pages 2h 29m reading time
- One of the best-known life stories of a woman who was enslaved, and a rare firsthand account of slavery in the northern United States.
- Shows that slavery in New York was harsh and long-lasting, which challenges the common idea that slavery belonged only to the South.
- Traces how a woman who could not read or write found strength in a deeply personal faith, chose her own new name, and set out to travel and preach.
- Remains a main source on the life of Sojourner Truth, who became a lasting symbol of the fight to end slavery and win rights for women.
Paid off a house
Money from selling the book at her talks helped pay for her own home in Northampton, Massachusetts.
Printed at her own cost
She paid to have it printed in Boston, then carried the copies with her and sold them herself.
Told to a friend
She met Olive Gilbert at the Northampton Association, a Massachusetts community that worked for equality and shared living.
Backed by a famous ally
William Lloyd Garrison, a leading voice against slavery, wrote the opening and had his printer produce it.
Grew in later versions
Later versions added a "Book of Life," a collection of letters and news stories about her travels and talks.