In the late 17th century, as European colonies in the Americas were expanding and the transatlantic slave trade was becoming deeply entrenched, a small group of settlers in Pennsylvania took an extraordinary stand. In 1688, four German Quakers living in Germantown Francis Daniel Pastorius, Garret Hendericks, Derick up de Graeff, and Abraham up de Graeff drafted a document that is now recognized as the first known formal protest against slavery in the American colonies. This petition, known as the Germantown Friends Antislavery Petition of 1688, challenged both the morality and legality of slavery, setting a precedent for future abolitionist efforts in North America.
Historical Background of Germantown and the Quakers
The Founding of Germantown
Germantown was founded in 1683 by German-speaking immigrants from the Rhineland, many of whom were Mennonites or Quakers fleeing religious persecution. Pennsylvania, under William Penn’s leadership, was a place of religious tolerance, making it a suitable haven for these settlers. The community quickly became known for its industriousness, peaceable values, and strong religious convictions, particularly regarding justice and equality.
Quaker Beliefs and Slavery
While the Quaker community had not yet taken a unified stance on slavery by 1688, many within the movement were deeply uncomfortable with the practice. Quaker beliefs emphasized the equality of all people under God, which stood in stark contradiction to the ownership of human beings. The Germantown Petition was an early manifestation of these internal moral debates that would, over time, lead the Society of Friends (Quakers) to become leaders in the abolitionist movement.
Details of the 1688 Petition
The Authors and Their Motivations
The petition was drafted by four Germantown Quakers who were well-educated and held strong Christian convictions. Francis Daniel Pastorius, the most prominent among them, was a lawyer, teacher, and civic leader. These men were motivated by both their religious faith and their European traditions of moral reasoning. They viewed slavery as a clear violation of the Golden Rule treat others as you would want to be treated.
Content and Language of the Petition
The Germantown Friends Antislavery Petition is notable for its clear, logical, and ethical arguments. It begins by stating that slavery is incompatible with Christianity and questions how people who had fled religious persecution in Europe could now participate in or tolerate the enslavement of others. The petitioners wrote:
- ‘There is a saying, that we shall do to all men like as we will be done ourselves; making no difference of what generation, descent or colour they are.’
- ‘This is a principle which no religious man dare contradict.’
They also raised a pragmatic concern about the future: if African people could be enslaved, what was to prevent white Europeans from one day being subjected to the same fate? The petition concludes by urging fellow Quakers to consider the implications of tolerating slavery and to take action against it.
Reaction to the Petition
Initial Response
When the petition was submitted to the Monthly Meeting of Quakers in Germantown, it was forwarded to the Quarterly Meeting in Philadelphia and then to the Yearly Meeting. While the content was recognized as significant and worthy of deeper reflection, no formal action was taken. The leadership noted that the issue was too serious and complex to be resolved quickly. Nevertheless, the document remained preserved in the meeting minutes, allowing it to be rediscovered and appreciated centuries later.
Why It Was Not Adopted Immediately
At the time, many Quakers in Pennsylvania were still slaveholders, and there was no broad consensus on the issue. Economic concerns and social norms made immediate action difficult. However, the Germantown petition planted a powerful seed within the Society of Friends, initiating a process of introspection and change that would eventually lead the Quakers to reject slavery completely.
Long-Term Impact and Legacy
Influence on Quaker Policy
Over the following decades, the petition’s sentiments gained traction among Quaker leaders. By the mid-18th century, figures such as John Woolman and Anthony Benezet were publicly speaking and writing against slavery, building on the moral groundwork laid by the Germantown petitioners. In 1758, the Philadelphia Yearly Meeting formally condemned slavery, and by 1776, Quakers were prohibited from owning slaves.
Role in American Abolitionism
The Germantown petition is now seen as a foundational document in the history of American abolitionism. Though it did not lead to immediate change, its principles echoed in the writings and actions of future abolitionists. Its rediscovery in the 19th century served as a reminder that the resistance to slavery in America had deep and principled roots.
Modern Recognition
Today, the Germantown Friends Antislavery Petition is celebrated for its moral clarity and courage. It is housed in the archives of the Haverford College Quaker Collection and is frequently cited in educational materials about slavery and civil rights. Memorials and plaques in Germantown commemorate the authors and the stand they took against injustice.
Key Lessons from the Germantown Petition
Moral Courage in the Face of Norms
One of the most important aspects of the petition is the bravery of its authors. Speaking out against slavery in 1688 was rare and risky. Their willingness to challenge not only the wider society but their own religious community is a powerful example of moral courage.
The Power of Ideas Over Time
Although the petition did not lead to immediate change, it shows how powerful ideas can influence future generations. Its preservation allowed it to shape later antislavery arguments and policies.
Universal Values and Human Rights
By invoking the Golden Rule and the equality of all people, the petition anticipated modern concepts of universal human rights. Its arguments resonate with contemporary discussions about justice, inclusion, and the dignity of all individuals.
The Germantown Friends Antislavery Petition of 1688 stands as one of the earliest and most significant protests against slavery in American history. Authored by a small group of courageous Quakers in colonial Pennsylvania, it reflected profound religious and moral convictions. Though it did not immediately end slavery or spark a movement, it laid a foundation for the eventual abolitionist cause. Its legacy reminds us that even in times when injustice is accepted by the majority, there are always those who are willing to speak out and uphold the principles of humanity, fairness, and equality.