Michael Ray narrates a basic introduction to indentured servitude and slavery in the North American colonies. The presentation looks at the transition from indentured servitude as the most common form of forced labor to the use of African slaves and the development of the slave trade. It includes excerpts from the oral history of a former slave.

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Professor Lucas E. Morel examines the life and views of abolitionist Frederick Douglass, especially his views of the U.S. Constitution and of the condition of African Americans and the fight for civil rights both before and after the Civil War, as revealed in his writings and speeches. This lecture continues from the lecture "Frederick Douglass, Part One."

Professor Diana Schaub reviews the life and views of abolitionist Frederick Douglass, particularly his criticism of emigration of freed slaves as a solution to race relations in the U.S. and his own views on how race relations could be improved.

Professor Diana Schaub looks at the views of free blacks (prior to the Civil War and emancipation) who supported emigration of free blacks and freed slaves to Africa or elsewhere away from the U.S. She considers why they believed emigration was the best choice for African Americans.

Professors Lucas E. Morel and Diana Schaub discuss the Founding Fathers' intentions in drafting the founding documents of the United States and the views of slavery, freedom, and equality that may be taken from these documents.

Professor David Foster analyzes Mark Twain's The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, looking at what the novel, its characters, and the life of its author reveal about the "American character" and views of American ideals and life at the time of its writing. This lecture continues from the lecture "Mark Twain and the American Character, Part One."

Professor David Foster analyzes Mark Twain's The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, looking at what the novel, its characters, and the life of its author reveal about the "American character" and views of American ideals and life at the time of its writing.

Professors Mackubin T. Owens and Lucas E. Morel discuss Lincoln's second Inaugural Address and his second election as President. They examine what Lincoln's view for the future of the nation was and also discuss the Northern and Southern troops' and generals' views of each other.

Professor Mackubin T. Owens looks at the role of African-American soldiers in the Civil War and the effects of the Emancipation Proclamation on the U.S. African-American population in general.

Professor Mackubin T. Owens describes Lincoln's actions as a leader during the Civil War, the strategies he employed during the war, and his success or failure as such a leader.