The Slaves' Gamble
by Gene Allen Smith
"Choosing Sides in the War of 1812"
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The Slaves' Gamble by Gene Allen Smith
Details
War:
War of 1812
Perspective:
Civilian
True Story:
Yes
Biography:
No
Region:
North America
Published Date:
2013
ISBN13:
9780230342088
Summary
The Slaves' Gamble examines how enslaved African Americans navigated the War of 1812 by making strategic choices about their allegiance. Gene Allen Smith explores how thousands of enslaved people evaluated offers of freedom from both British and American forces, weighing the risks and potential rewards of supporting either side. The book reveals how slaves became active participants rather than passive victims, using the war as an opportunity to pursue liberation. Smith analyzes their calculated decisions, the military roles they assumed, and the varied outcomes they faced, offering fresh perspective on this often-overlooked dimension of the conflict.
