Lesson 14:Thomas Peters A Remarkable Man
Lesson 14:Thomas Peters A Remarkable Man
Lesson 14:Thomas Peters A Remarkable Man
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Promises of Freedom<br />
The colonists’ fears came true in November 1775. Lord<br />
Dunmore was the British governor of Virginia. He was a<br />
powerful Loyalist. Lord Dunmore made a remarkable offer.<br />
He promised freedom to any black person enslaved by a<br />
Patriot. The person had to agree to fight for the British. (This<br />
offer was not made to black people enslaved by Loyalists.)<br />
News of Lord Dunmore’s offer spread quickly. <strong>Man</strong>y<br />
colonists were angry. They thought enslaved blacks were<br />
their “property.” So the colonists felt that Lord Dunmore<br />
was stealing their property. The colonists also felt that Lord<br />
Dunmore wanted to cause unrest.<br />
Even so, Lord Dunmore’s offer had the effect he<br />
wanted. It inspired many blacks—including <strong>Thomas</strong><br />
<strong>Peters</strong>—to escape. These people then joined the British<br />
troops and claimed their liberty.<br />
“And I hereby further declare all indentured<br />
Servants, Negroes, or others, (appertaining to Rebels,)<br />
free that are able and willing to bear Arms, they joining<br />
His MAJESTY’S Troops as soon as may be.”<br />
This quote is from Lord Dunmore’s offer. He said that an enslaved<br />
person could become free by joining the British troops. The same<br />
was true for an indentured servant.<br />
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