study guides for every class

that actually explain what's on your next test

1775 Dunmore's Proclamation

from class:

AP US History

Definition

Dunmore's Proclamation was issued by John Murray, the Earl of Dunmore and Royal Governor of Virginia, in November 1775. The proclamation declared martial law in Virginia and promised freedom to enslaved people who joined the British forces in their fight against the American revolutionaries. This pivotal moment highlighted the complexities of slavery in the British colonies and the ways in which the Revolutionary War impacted the institution of slavery and the lives of enslaved people.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Dunmore's Proclamation was one of the first official British efforts to recruit enslaved people as soldiers, recognizing their potential as a military asset.
  2. The proclamation created significant tension between enslaved people and their masters, leading to fears among white plantation owners about potential uprisings.
  3. As a result of Dunmore's Proclamation, thousands of enslaved people sought refuge with British troops, significantly impacting the demographics of Virginia.
  4. This proclamation served as a catalyst for discussions about freedom and rights among both enslaved and free Black individuals during the revolutionary period.
  5. Dunmore's Proclamation ultimately reflected a broader strategy by British authorities to undermine colonial resistance by exploiting divisions within American society.

Review Questions

  • How did Dunmore's Proclamation impact the relationships between enslaved people and their owners during the Revolutionary War?
    • Dunmore's Proclamation significantly strained relationships between enslaved people and their owners as it offered freedom to those who joined British forces. Many enslaved individuals seized this opportunity, leading to fear among plantation owners about potential revolts or loss of labor. This shift forced owners to confront their reliance on enslaved labor while simultaneously revealing deep divisions within society regarding loyalty, freedom, and rebellion.
  • Evaluate how Dunmore's Proclamation reflected British military strategies during the American Revolution.
    • Dunmore's Proclamation was part of a broader British military strategy that aimed to weaken colonial resolve by exploiting existing social tensions. By recruiting enslaved people into military service, the British sought to bolster their forces while undermining the economic stability of the colonies. This tactic not only aimed to draw more manpower for Britain but also aimed to create chaos within colonial society by turning enslaved individuals against their masters.
  • Analyze the long-term implications of Dunmore's Proclamation on discussions surrounding slavery in America following the Revolutionary War.
    • The long-term implications of Dunmore's Proclamation played a significant role in shaping post-war discussions about slavery and freedom in America. The proclamation challenged prevailing notions of slavery by directly linking military service with emancipation, paving the way for future abolitionist sentiments. As former slaves who fought for the British shared their stories, they contributed to an evolving dialogue about human rights and liberties that would ultimately lead to increased scrutiny of slavery as a moral institution in America.
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.