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Lesson 7 of 84 · The Civil War

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John Brown's Raid on Harpers Ferry

🌍Mission Brief #7

John Brown's Raid on Harpers Ferry in 1859 was an attempt by the abolitionist John Brown to initiate a slave revolt by seizing a federal armory.

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John Brown's Raid on Harpers Ferry in 1859 was an attempt by the abolitionist John Brown to initiate a slave revolt by seizing a federal armory. Brown believed that armed resistance was necessary to end slavery. His raid, however, was unsuccessful, as Brown and his followers were captured by U.S. Marines. The event heightened tensions between the North and South and made Brown a martyr to some in the abolitionist movement, while others viewed him as a terrorist. This division reflected the growing conflict over slavery in America.

Key Facts

1

John Brown's Raid occurred in 1859 at Harpers Ferry, Virginia.

2

Brown aimed to start a slave revolt by seizing a federal armory.

3

The raid increased tensions between the North and South.

Timeline

1787

The U.S. Constitution is written

1791

The Bill of Rights is ratified

1803

The Louisiana Purchase doubles the size of the U.S.

Check Your Understanding

Question 1

1 of 2

What was John Brown trying to achieve with his raid?

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John Brown's Raid on Harpers Ferry

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John Brown's Raid on Harpers Ferry — The Civil War | 5th Grade Social Studies | LittleActivity