This work argues that slave resistance was much more prevalent and widespread than has usually been attributed, and, specifically, that slaves attempted to run away from their masters whenever they could. It examines contemporary documents to how slaves resisted and the punishments they were meted.

This bold and precedent-setting study details numerous slave rebellions against white masters, drawn from planters' records, government petitions, newspapers, and other documents. The reactions of white slave owners are also documented. 15 halftones.

"Provides an arsenal of ammunition to prove that the Old South was a war zone.... The best book available on the struggle between slaves and their owners."--John David Smith, Columbus Ohio Dispatch