An Atrocious Debasement of Human Nature: Benjamin Franklin, the First Abolitionist Petitions, and Justice

How did Benjamin Franklin action to abolish slavery in the early republic? Use his example to think about how students can promote justice for themselves and others.

Walk-In-The-Shoes Questions
As you read, imagine you are the protagonist.

• What challenges are you facing?
• What fears or concerns might you have?
• What may prevent you from acting in the way you ought?

Observation Questions

• How was Franklin’s identity tied to his fight for abolition?
• What was Franklin’s purpose in writing his petition?
• What made Franklin write his petition and later his satirical piece about slavery?
• What did the purpose of Franklin’s petition say about his identity?

Discussion Questions
Discuss the following questions with your students.

• What is the historical context of the narrative?
• What historical circumstances presented a challenge to the protagonist?
• How and why did the individual exhibit a moral and/or civic virtue in facing and overcoming the challenge?
• How did the exercise of the virtue benefit civil society?
• How might exercise of the virtue benefit the protagonist?
• What might the exercise of the virtue cost the protagonist?
• Would you react the same under similar circumstances? Why or why not?
• How can you act similarly in your own life? What obstacles must you overcome in order to do so?

• Students will evaluate Benjamin Franklin’s efforts to petition Congress to abolish slavery.
• Students will evaluate why Franklin’s actions to promote justice for slaves was important.
• Students will apply their knowledge of justice to their own experiences.
• Students will promote justice for themselves and others.