Born into âthe blessings of liberty in a free State,â Solomon Northup was kidnapped and sold into slavery in the Bayou Boeuf region of Louisianaâs Red River Valley. Twelve Years a Slave is the chronicle of his captivity at the mercy of sadistic plantation owner Edwin Epps, who tested Northupâs tenacity and self-control under the most brutal conditions. Until fate brought a Canadian abolitionist to Eppsâs farm, Northup thought he would never draw another free breath.
To this day Northupâs harrowing memoir is recognized as the most reliable, accurate eyewitness account of the daily lives of slaves. As a significant historical reference, it is unsurpassed. As an authentic narrative of a man starved of his freedom, it is unforgettable.
Born into âthe blessings of liberty in a free State,â Solomon Northup was kidnapped and sold into slavery in the Bayou Boeuf region of Louisianaâs Red River Valley. Twelve Years a Slave is the chronicle of his captivity at the mercy of sadistic plantation owner Edwin Epps, who tested Northupâs tenacity and self-control under the most brutal conditions. Until fate brought a Canadian abolitionist to Eppsâs farm, Northup thought he would never draw another free breath.
To this day Northupâs harrowing memoir is recognized as the most reliable, accurate eyewitness account of the daily lives of slaves. As a significant historical reference, it is unsurpassed. As an authentic narrative of a man starved of his freedom, it is unforgettable.