New York Slave Revolt Erupts Near Broadway

April 6th, 1712

April 6th, 1712

New York Slave Revolt Erupts Near Broadway
How Long Ago?

312 years, 11 months, 9 days ago

Location

New York City, New York, USA

Category

Social Movements & Civil Rights

Links & References
Tags

New York Slave Revolt Erupts Near Broadway

A significant uprising occurred among enslaved Africans in New York City, when around twenty enslaved individuals attacked white colonists and set fire to a house on Broadway. This act of rebellion reflected growing tensions in a society relying heavily on slave labor. The revolt was swiftly quashed by the colonial militias, leading to a brutal crackdown on enslaved people accused of involvement.

First major slave revolt in New York City.

Around twenty enslaved individuals participated.

Led to drastic changes in slave laws.

The revolt resulted in numerous fatalities.

What Happened?

In the spring of 1712, tensions erupted in New York City, culminating in a violent slave revolt near Broadway. The catalyst for the revolt was the oppressive conditions faced by enslaved Africans in the colonies. On the evening of April 6, approximately twenty enslaved individuals gathered and coordinated an attack against the white colonists. They launched a surprise assault that resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries among colonists and caused significant property damage by igniting fires. Despite being outnumbered, the enslaved rebels fought valiantly, utilizing makeshift weapons to resist their oppressors.

The colonial authorities quickly responded to the revolt. The governor of the province initiated a militarized crackdown, deploying soldiers to suppress the insurrection. In the aftermath, leaders of the revolt were captured, and the retribution was severe. Several enslaved individuals were executed, while others faced brutal punishment as a deterrent against future rebellions. The event shocked the community and ignited fear among both enslaved and free populations about the potential for further uprisings.

The revolt prompted a reevaluation of slavery in the colony. Discussions about laws and regulations surrounding enslaved people emerged, leading to more stringent slave codes aimed at controlling and monitoring the enslaved population. The revolt also influenced the colonial government’s approach to maintaining order and quelling dissent among enslaved people in New York City, further entrenching the system of slavery in the region.

Why Does it Matter?

The New York Slave Revolt of 1712 is interesting as it highlights the growing unrest among enslaved people and represents a pivotal moment in the struggle for human rights. The immediate repercussions of the revolt led to harsher laws and regulations designed to suppress the enslaved population. Furthermore, it serves as a precursor to future rebellions and resistance efforts within the American colonies, illustrating the persistent desire for freedom.

Discover More Historic Events from April 6th

Accidents & Tragedies

Humboldt Broncos Bus Collision with Truck

April 6th, 2018 6 years ago

A bus carrying the Humboldt Broncos junior ice hockey team collided with a semi-truck in Saskatchewan, leading to the deaths of 16 individuals and injuring 13 others. The accident occurred while the team was traveling to a playoff game in Nipawin. The bus was on Highway 35 when it collided with the truck at an intersection. The tragedy sparked national and international condolences and discussions about road safety.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

U.S. Strikes Syria with Tomahawk Missiles

April 6th, 2017 7 years ago

The U.S. military launched 59 Tomahawk cruise missiles at the Shayrat airbase in Syria, targeting the facilities used for chemical weapon attacks. The action came in response to a deadly chemical attack that claimed civilian lives and was attributed to the Syrian government. This military strike marked a significant escalation in U.S. involvement in the Syrian Civil War, leading to sharp criticism from Russia, which labeled the strikes as aggression and detrimental to U.S.-Russia relations.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Azawad's Declaration of Independence from Mali

April 6th, 2012 12 years ago

The National Movement for the Liberation of Azawad (MNLA) declared the independence of Azawad from the Republic of Mali, asserting their control over the northern region of Mali. The declaration was made in the context of rising tensions and conflict in the area, fueled by actions from both rebel groups and government forces. This move was seen as a culmination of longstanding grievances regarding governance and ethnic representation in the region. The MNLA claimed to represent the Tuareg people and sought to establish a sovereign state in northern Mali, highlighting aspirations for self-determination.

Continue Reading
Crime & Law

Mass graves discovered in San Fernando, Tamaulipas

April 6th, 2011 13 years ago

In San Fernando, Tamaulipas, authorities discovered several mass graves containing the remains of over 193 victims linked to the Los Zetas drug cartel. This significant find followed a series of violent clashes between rival groups and reported disappearances in the area. Experts noted that the victims appeared to be individuals who had been kidnapped, illustrating the brutal realities of cartel violence in Mexico. Local law enforcement and federal authorities worked together to exhume the bodies and investigate the circumstances surrounding the mass graves.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Maoist Attack on CRPF Officers in Dantewada

April 6th, 2010 14 years ago

In a deadly ambush in Dantewada district, Maoist rebels killed 76 personnel of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). This attack occurred in a remote area where the CRPF was conducting anti-insurgency operations. The ambush was one of the deadliest faced by Indian security forces in the ongoing conflict against Maoist insurgency. The rebels utilized a combination of tactics including landmines and gunfire to inflict significant casualties on the forces.

Continue Reading
Natural Disasters

Devastating 6.3 Magnitude Earthquake in Italy

April 6th, 2009 15 years ago

A 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck near L'Aquila, Italy, resulting in the loss of 307 lives. The quake occurred in the early hours, causing widespread destruction across the region. Thousands were left homeless as buildings collapsed, prompting a significant emergency response from local and international agencies. Residents faced immediate hardships as they sought safety and shelter amidst the chaos.

Continue Reading