Uncle Tom’s Cabin

“I would write something that would make this whole nation feel what an accursed thing slavery is.” —Harriet Beecher Stowe

First published in book form this day in 1852: Uncle Tom’s Cabin, by Harriet Beecher Stow, arguably the most influential book in American history

Stowe’s wildly popular book (it sold 10,000 copies in the first week alone) whipped up anti-slavery sentiment in the United States. Some even claim it caused the Civil War. In any event, it was deeply influential, bringing to readers a highly personal depiction of slavery and its indignities and horrors. Read it here for free!

Stowe and a scene from Uncle Tom’s Cabin

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