The Freedom-Seekers: Blacks In Early Canada

by Daniel G. Hill

Black Loyalists and their families were among the first settlers in Nova Scotia and Upper Canada. As abolitiion movements and the Underground Railroad gained support, Black slaves and refugees flooded into Canada determined to build new lives for themselves and their children. The Freedom-Seekers chronicles the phenomenal success story of their struggle to break the chains of slavery and gain the full rights of citizenship in their adopted country.

242 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1981

Reviews

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book provided an excellent survey of early Black Canadian history. The primer on Black settlements was particularly useful. Refreshingly, this work was different from the all-too-common, superficial descriptions of the Underground Railroad migrations. Daniel Hill's book provided great insights into African-Americans' movements northward (during different periods) and the connection and interconnectedness of people and communities on both sides of the border.

[Beverly · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is not a quick read, but it is an important resource. In the current climate it offers excellent
background on some of our eminent early Canadians and their relationships to black Canadians. These things were not taught when I was in school. The underground railway was certainly discussed, but usually the emphasis was on the brave abolitionists, not on the brave people who were escaping or on the rigours of the process. I have read a library copy of 1981 edition, and the smell of a long closed book was obvious. It's sad if this information is not being currently accessed.

[Dave White · Rating 4 out of 5]

Informative.
I learned many things I didn't know.
That's the good part about reading.

[Michelle HW]

Great read for African Canadian History - rarely told story!