William Whipple, The Founding Father That Freed All Of His Slaves

Portrait of William Whipple.

Introduction

Back in the 1700s, there was an amazing man named William Whipple, and the 1700s was a time when many people owned slaves, including in the United States. But guess what? William Whipple did something really special, and he decided to set his slaves free because he strongly believed it was the right thing to do.

Early Life and Influences

William Whipple was born on January 14, 1731, in Kittery, Maine. He grew up in a place where many people believed it was okay to own slaves. But as he got older, he started thinking differently. Whipple learned about important ideas that made him question whether it was right to keep other people as slaves. These ideas talked about freedom, fairness, and treating everyone equally. They made Whipple wonder if slavery was really fair or just.

Involvement in the Revolutionary Cause

When William Whipple moved to Portsmouth, New Hampshire, he became part of a group of people who wanted to be free from British rule. Whipple became well-known for supporting this cause. But he didn't stop there. He thought that freedom should be for everyone, not just the colonies. Whipple believed that every person, no matter their race or background, should have the same rights and opportunities.

The Decision to Free the Slaves

In 1776, while William Whipple was working as a delegate for the Continental Congress, he made a big decision. He chose to set his slaves free. This was a very important step because it showed that Whipple was true to his beliefs. He knew that keeping people as slaves went against the things he fought for—freedom and fairness. Whipple's decision wasn't celebrated with a big party, but it was a powerful and meaningful action that spoke volumes about his values.

Ensuring a Better Future

William Whipple knew that freeing his slaves was just the beginning. He wanted to make sure they had a good chance at a new life. Whipple helped them by giving guidance, support, and even money. He wanted his former slaves to have opportunities to succeed and build happy lives for themselves and their families. This showed Whipple's kindness and his desire to create a fair and equal society.

Legacy and Impact

Besides setting his slaves free, William Whipple did even more for his country. He fought in important battles during the Revolutionary War, like the Battle of Saratoga. Whipple showed leadership and earned the respect of others. When he signed the United States Declaration of Independence, it was a clear sign of his strong belief in freedom and equality for all.

The story of William Whipple, who chose to free his slaves because of his beliefs, is truly inspiring. He stood up against the norms of his time and fought for what he believed was right. Whipple's actions remind us that we can make a difference, even when faced with difficult choices. His story continues to inspire people today to fight for freedom, fairness, and justice for all.