New York Slave Revolt of 1712

Quick Facts: Who was New York Slave Revolt of 1712?

Subject:

New York Slave Revolt of 1712

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A major 1712 uprising by enslaved people in New York City, leading to severe repression.

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Origins & Early Life

The New York Slave Revolt of 1712 was an uprising in New York City, in the Province of New York, of 23 black enslaved people. The population of New York consisted of a low 6,000–8,000 people in which 1,000 of them were slaves. They killed nine white people and injured another six before they were stopped. More than 70 black people were arrested and jailed. Of these, 27 were put on trial, and 21 convicted and executed.

Career & Major Achievements

On the night of 6 April 1712, a group of more than 20 slaves, the majority of whom were believed to be Coromantee people of Ghanaian heritage, set fire to a building on Maiden Lane near Broadway to initiate their revolt. Slaves turned the night into a panic. While the local white inhabitants tried to put out the fire, the slaves, armed with guns, hatchets, and swords, fought the whites and then ran off. Eight whites died, and seven were wounded. Over the next few days, New York militiamen arrested seventy blacks and jailed them.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

Twenty-seven were put on trial, 21 of whom were convicted and sentenced to death. By the early 18th century, New York had one of the largest slave populations of any of the settlements in the Thirteen Colonies. In contrast to the southern states where slaves were primarily agricultural laborers, enslaved people in New York worked in a variety of jobs including as domestic servants, artisans, dock workers, and in various skilled trades. Slaves in New York also lived near each other, making communication easy. Furthermore, they often worked among free black people, a situation that did not exist on most Southern plantations.

Chronological Milestones & Life Events

1. 1712: 1712 Milestone — The New York Slave Revolt of 1712 was an uprising in New York City, in the Province of New York, of 23 black enslaved people.

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: New York Slave Revolt of 1712

True or False: “The immediate aftermath of the revolt saw all captured slaves granted full rights and property ownership in New York City.”

Answer (FALSE ❌): Instead, the colony passed more restrictive laws, severely curtailing assembly rights and increasing penalties for crimes.

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