Army.--New York promises her Negro Soldiers Freedom.--A
Conscientious Minority in Favor of the Abolition of the
Slave-Trade.--Slavery flourishes during the Entire
Revolutionary Period. 402


CHAPTER XXXI.

SLAVERY AS A POLITICAL AND LEGAL PROBLEM.

1775-1800.

British Colonies in North America declare their
Independence.--A New Government established.--Slavery the
Bane of American Civilization.--The Tory Party accept the
Doctrine of Property in Man.--The Doctrine of the Locke
Constitution in the South.--The Whig Party the Dominant
Political Organization in the Northern States.--Slavery
recognized under the New Government.--Anti Slavery Agitation
in the States.--Attempted Legislation against
Slavery.--Articles of Confederation.--Then Adoption in
1778.--Discussion concerning the Disposal of the Western
Territory.--Mr. Jefferson's Recommendation.--Amendment by
Mr. Spaight.--Congress in New York in 1787.--Discussion
respecting the Government of the Western
Territory.--Convention at Philadelphia to frame the Federal
Constitution.--Proceedings of the Convention.--The Southern
States still advocate Slavery.--Speeches on the Slavery
Question by Leading Statesmen.--Constitution adopted by the
Convention in 1787.--First Session of Congress under the