48pounders

The 48pounders were a group of American abolitionists who were active in the mid-19th century. They were named after their practice of carrying a 48-pound weight on their backs during their abolitionist work, which was a symbol of their commitment to the cause. The group was founded in 1833 by William Lloyd Garrison and was initially composed of young men from the North who were eager to participate in the abolitionist movement.

The 48pounders were known for their aggressive and sometimes violent tactics in their efforts to end slavery. They often targeted slave traders and slave ships, and were involved in several high-profile incidents, including the capture of the slave ship Creole in 1836. The group was also involved in the Underground Railroad, helping enslaved people to escape to the North.

Despite their controversial methods, the 48pounders were an important part of the abolitionist movement. Their actions helped to raise awareness of the horrors of slavery and to build support for the cause. However, their tactics also drew criticism from other abolitionists, who saw them as too radical and violent.

The 48pounders were disbanded in 1838, after a series of incidents that led to the deaths of several of their members. The group's legacy is a complex one, reflecting the tensions and contradictions of the abolitionist movement. While their actions were often controversial, they also played an important role in the struggle to end slavery in the United States.