The Dual Legacy of Henry Box Brown

This chapter explores the life of Henry Box Brown, a fugitive slave who escaped by mailing himself and later became a performer. It examines the interplay between his theatrical exploits and the abolitionist movement's expectations, alongside the symbolism of his performances that mirrored his journey from bondage to freedom. The narrative also addresses the challenges of racial discrimination he faced even after escaping, reflecting on the complexities of identity and representation in a post-slavery context.