Slavery in New York

Slavery in New York began in the early 1600s and legally ended in 1827. For much of colonial and early United States history, New York was second only to South Carolina in the number of enslaved individuals and the level of participation in the slave trade. New York's economy was dependent on the enslavement of Blacks which resulted in many New Yorker's supporting and participating in the system of enslavement. The resources on this page provide educators and students with access to the primary sources that tell the history of slavery in New York. 

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Featured Learning Activities

An Act for the Gradual Abolition of Slavery

Sojourner Truth's Fight for African American and Women's Rights in 19th Century New York

Manumission record of Tone, Stephen, Pheobe, Silva and her children Tallyho, Tom, and Hanover.

The African American Experience in the Dutch Colonies

Manumission of Mink

Will of Rachel Bogardus, October 2, 1781

Slavery in New York

Understanding New York's 1730 Slave Code

Life of the Enslaved in New York State

History of Slavery in New York

Additional Resources

Slavery in New York from the New-York Historical Society Exhibit and Educational Resources