35 Facts About Solomon Northup

Early Life

Solomon Northup's early years set the stage for his remarkable life story. Here are some fascinating details about his beginnings.

1. Born in July 1808 in Minerva, New York, Solomon was the son of a freed slave and a free woman of color.
2. His father, Mintus Northup, was granted freedom in his master's will, which was unusual for the time.
3. Solomon received an education, a rare opportunity for African Americans in the early 19th century.
4. He married Anne Hampton in 1829, and they had three children together.
5. Northup worked various jobs, including as a farmer, carpenter, and violinist.

Kidnapping and Enslavement

Solomon's life took a dramatic turn when he was kidnapped and sold into slavery. These facts highlight this harrowing period.

6. In 1841, two men offered Solomon a lucrative job as a musician in Washington, D.C.
7. After arriving in Washington, he was drugged, kidnapped, and sold into slavery.
8. He was transported to New Orleans, where he was sold to a plantation owner named William Ford.
9. Solomon was given the name "Platt" by his captors to conceal his true identity.
10. He endured 12 years of brutal slavery in Louisiana before regaining his freedom.

Life on the Plantation

Life on the plantation was grueling and filled with hardship. Here are some insights into Solomon's experiences during this time.

11. Solomon worked on several plantations, including those owned by William Ford and Edwin Epps.
12. He used his carpentry skills to build structures and improve plantation operations.
13. Despite the harsh conditions, Solomon maintained hope and resilience.
14. He formed close bonds with fellow slaves, who provided support and camaraderie.
15. Solomon's musical talent earned him some favor with his owners, though it did not spare him from punishment.

Escape and Freedom

Solomon's journey to freedom is a testament to his determination and courage. These facts shed light on how he managed to escape.

16. Solomon met a Canadian carpenter named Samuel Bass, who opposed slavery.
17. Bass agreed to help Solomon by sending letters to his friends and family in the North.
18. In January 1853, Solomon's friends and family successfully petitioned for his release.
19. Solomon was freed on January 4, 1853, after 12 years of enslavement.
20. He returned to New York and reunited with his family.

Writing "Twelve Years a Slave"

After regaining his freedom, Solomon documented his experiences in a powerful memoir. Here are some key points about his book.

21. Solomon collaborated with ghostwriter David Wilson to write "Twelve Years a Slave."
22. The book was published in 1853, just months after Solomon's release.
23. It became an immediate bestseller, selling over 30,000 copies in its first two years.
24. "Twelve Years a Slave" provided a detailed and personal account of the horrors of slavery.
25. The memoir played a significant role in the abolitionist movement.

Later Life and Legacy

Solomon's later years and enduring legacy continue to inspire and educate. These facts highlight his impact and contributions.

26. After the publication of his memoir, Solomon became an active abolitionist speaker.
27. He traveled across the Northern states, sharing his story and advocating for the end of slavery.
28. Solomon's exact date of death remains unknown, but it is believed he died in the late 1860s or early 1870s.
29. His memoir was largely forgotten until it was rediscovered in the 1960s.
30. In 2013, Solomon's story was adapted into an Academy Award-winning film directed by Steve McQueen.

Impact on History

Solomon Northup's life and story have had a lasting impact on history and culture. Here are some ways he has influenced the world.

31. "Twelve Years a Slave" is considered one of the most important slave narratives in American literature.
32. The book has been used as a primary source in historical research and education.
33. Solomon's story has helped to humanize the experiences of enslaved people and highlight the brutality of slavery.
34. His resilience and determination continue to inspire people fighting for justice and equality.
35. The film adaptation of his memoir brought renewed attention to Solomon's life and the history of slavery in America.

Solomon Northup's Legacy

Solomon Northup's story remains a powerful reminder of resilience and the fight for freedom. His memoir, "Twelve Years a Slave," offers a firsthand account of the brutal realities of slavery, shedding light on a dark chapter in history. Northup's experiences highlight the importance of perseverance and the human spirit's ability to overcome immense adversity.

His legacy continues to inspire and educate, reminding us of the progress made and the work still needed to ensure equality and justice for all. By learning about Northup's life, we gain a deeper understanding of the past and a greater appreciation for the freedoms enjoyed today.

Remembering Solomon Northup isn't just about honoring his struggle; it's about acknowledging the countless others who endured similar fates. His story serves as a beacon of hope and a call to action, urging us to strive for a more just and equitable world.