This foremost history of the Northern slave system examines its operation from its colonial beginnings to its dissolution.
"A thorough, well-documented, scholarly account of the system of slavery in the middle and northern colonies prior to 1810. In the early 19th century he [McManus] sees economic displacement allowing an emancipation of blacks that is at least as beneficial to the masters as to the blacks. . . . a sound chronicle of slavery in an area whose slave history has not been emphasized. . . . Highly recommended"—Choice
"In this thoroughly researched and well-written study McManus methodically delineates the essential characteristics of slavery in the North. . . . An illuminating study of slavery in a neglected area, a study that will certainly form part of the continuing debate among historians of comparative slavery."—Journal of American History
Edgar J. McManus is professor of history at Queens College and the Graduate Center of the City University of New York. He is the author of A History of Negro Slavery in New York, also published by Syracuse University Press.
November 2001
