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Chase, Salmon P. (Salmon Portland) (1808-1873) Speech of Salmon P. Chase, in the case of the colored woman Matilda

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC05114 Author/Creator: Chase, Salmon P. (Salmon Portland) (1808-1873) Place Written: Cincinnati, Ohio Type: Pamphlet Date: 1837 Pagination: 40 p. ; 16.8 x 11 cm. Order a Copy

Speech given before an Ohio court, arguing for the freedom of a slave named Matilda. Argues that Matilda should be free now that she is in Ohio, and argues that the Fugitive Slave Act is unconstitutional. Matilda had been brought before the court by a writ of habeas corpus. She had been working as a servant for Chase's client, when it was discovered she was an escaped slave.

Chase would lose the case, but this would be the beginning of his career as a prominent supporter of abolition. Speech was given 11 March 1837. Printed by Pugh & Dodd.

Chase, Salmon P. (Salmon Portland), 1808-1873

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