John Brown: A Retrospect Read before The Worcester Society of Antiquity, Dec. 2, 1884.

"John Brown: A Retrospect" by Alfred S. Roe gives readers a look back at the life of John Brown, the abolitionist who became a symbol in the fight against slavery. Writing in the late 1800s, Roe explores the reasons behind Brown’s actions and how they stirred up the country. The book walks through the lead-up to Brown’s trial and death, painting a picture of his strong opposition to slavery and how it moved others to act. Roe shows different views on Brown from both the North and the South, and places Brown's story within the bigger picture of the anti-slavery movement, suggesting that he was a hero whose influence was lasting even after the Civil War.