Discussion on American Slavery

"Discussions on American Slavery" by George Thompson and Robert J. Breckinridge is a mid-19th-century account that unfolds as a formal debate between Thompson, a passionate abolitionist, and Breckinridge, a representative of the Presbyterian Church. Their discussions center around the ethics and societal impacts of American slavery. The book dives into the justifications for and against slavery, also bringing to light the responsibilities Americans and Britons faced in addressing human rights issues. The initial letters exchanged between Thompson and Breckinridge set the scene for their Glasgow debate, highlighting the importance slavery had in the 1830s. Both speakers put forward their opinions on Christian morality and societal duty, laying the groundwork for a tense argument. Breckinridge shares his doubts about taking part, while Thompson is keen to defend his opposition to slavery and challenge the views of American ministers and slave owners. The central focus of the book is to influence the audience and support individual arguments on slavery.