The Legacy of John Rankin in Abolitionism

John Rankin is recognized as a pivotal figure in the abolitionist movement, often hailed as the 'father of abolitionism.' His influence stemmed from a series of letters he wrote in response to his brother, who had purchased slaves, wherein he methodically addressed and rebutted arguments in favor of slavery. These letters gained significant traction, reaching key abolitionist figures like William Lloyd Garrison, who credited Rankin as his anti-slavery mentor. This underscores Rankin's crucial role in shaping the early anti-slavery discourse in America and highlights the widespread impact of his writings both in the United States and abroad.