Olaudah Equiano Analysis

Dr. Alvis Dunn introduced the lecture with an overview emphasizing the importance of inequality and the humanity of slaves in various countries. During the Atlantic Revolutions, many African Americans were kidnapped or captured; “The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano” written by Equiano recreates the experiences he faced similarly to a soliloquy. However, what was interesting in his perspective, the author talks about the adversity he faced, but he was willing to forgive the sins of the slave traders because he was able to develop a strong relationship to God. His strong faith in God allows him to believe that he is blessed to have him exist in all the events of his life. As evident in the readings and the lecture, Thomas Jefferson, John Locke, and Jean- Jacques Rousseau …show more content…
Thomas Jefferson, the founder of the U.S Constitution faced some pitfalls because he did not specify who he was referring to when he created the phrase, “All men are created equal.” Benjamin Banneker letters addressing to Thomas Jefferson using rhetorical strategies such as diction, attitude, and textual citation to enhance his credibility for his argument against slavery. Although this letter may be interpreted differently, I believed Banneker didn’t do this in spite of Jefferson, but rather to make him think of America’s goals as a nation with principles including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness to advocate for the end of slavery. What amazed me the most is that even though Benjamin Banneker is a well-educated African American living inside the difficulties of slavery, he addresses Thomas Jefferson as “Sir.” Furthermore, he uses historical evidence to point out the relationship between the colonists when they had negative memories of when Britain ruled over the American colonies. Then, he continues his rhetoric as he compares that situation to the slavery of African Americans and illustrates a brutally honest depiction of how slaves were living