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Invite reads: "The executive committee (of the American Anti-Slavery Society) will meet on Thursday, Oct 18th at 12 o'clock"
Invitation to a meeting of the American Anti-Slavery Society. (Photo: Boston Public Library)

The American Anti-Slavery Society forms.

1833

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Invitation to a meeting of the American Anti-Slavery Society. (Photo: Boston Public Library)

The American Anti-Slavery Society forms in Philadelphia. By 1835, hundreds of branches will exist throughout the free states, as anti-slavery sentiments rise. Slavery advocates turn to medical, "scientific," and biblical arguments to "prove" that Black people are distinct and "inferior" to white people. Slavery is no longer described as a "necessary evil," but as a "positive good" that benefits the enslaved.