BLACK LIFE Dec. 12 | Page 4

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David Walker Vs. Nat Turner

Nat Turner and David Walker were both very influential abolitionists during the American Slavery Era. Both men believed that it was their God given duty to help African American enslaved individuals. Although these two men had two totally different approaches, one might ask who was more successful in his approach to spread his message? David Walker, an author, published his writing called An Appeal to the Coloured Citizens of the World. This literary piece was created to influence enslaved African Americans to unify in the fight against injustice and oppression. Little did Walker know that his works would influence another man later in history.

Photograph: David Walker

Photograph: Nat Turner

On the other hand, Nat Turner took the idea of abolitionism into his own hands, literally. On August 21, 1831, Turner led a slave rebellion that led to death of more than 50 whites. Although he was success in his mission, he was caught and hung along with 56 other Blacks.

Both Walker and Turner made their mark on history, but in the case of who had a greater impact, Turner is the clear winner. Since Turner's revolt impacted the relationship between Blacks and Whites and caused the deaths of over 200 Blacks by whites in rage of his actions, he is the clear winner here. Although, no one is really a winner in this senario, Turner's impact reached far beyond what he expected.

By: Courtney Mickens