Solomon Northup was born as a free man in New York in 1808. In 1841, he was lured to Washington, D.C., by two men who promised him work as a musician. Instead, he was kidnapped and sold into slavery, ending up on a plantation in Louisiana. Over the next twelve years, Northup endured horrific conditions, faced physical abuse, and struggled to maintain his identity and humanity despite the oppressive environment. His resilience was remarkable, as he fought to gain the trust of his captors and found ways to communicate his plight secretly to others around him.

In January 1853, after his eventual escape, Northup wrote 'Twelve Years a Slave,' detailing his harrowing experiences while emphasizing the shared humanity of enslaved individuals. This memoir was significant not only for its personal narrative but also for its broader critique of the institution of slavery in America. Through his vivid descriptions, Northup offered readers an eye-opening glimpse into the everyday lives of enslaved people, exposing the brutal realities that were often hidden from the public eye.

'Twelve Years a Slave' quickly gained popularity, becoming a bestseller and playing a pivotal role in the abolitionist movement. It served as an important literary work that educated many Americans about the moral and ethical implications of slavery. Northup's firsthand account exemplified how personal narratives could influence public opinion and galvanize support for social justice and change.