The Establishment of Liberia: A Quest for Freedom Among Formerly Enslaved Black Americans

The creation of Liberia was fueled by formerly enslaved Black Americans’ quest for freedom, initiated by the American Colonization Society in 1816. Approximately 15,000 individuals resettled in Liberia, where they established a new society while facing challenges from the local population. The Coleman family, descendants of an early settler, highlight the ongoing ties between America and Liberia, exemplified by their annual reunions and support for development in Liberia.

The journey towards establishing Liberia was initiated by formerly enslaved Black Americans, primarily driven by the belief that they would never attain true freedom in a segregated America. In 1816, the American Colonization Society (ACS) was formed, aiming to create a colony in Africa for free Black individuals to expatriate. C. Patrick Burrowes, Historian of Liberia, noted that this movement was supported by politicians concerned about the social stability in the U.S. with the presence of free Black individuals.

The ACS was instrumental in acquiring land in Africa, subsequently naming it Liberia, which translates to “the land of the free.” Its capital, Monrovia, was named in honor of President James Monroe. Approximately 15,000 freed Black Americans settled in Liberia, equipped with skills they had learned while enslaved, as they sought to build a new society despite challenges from indigenous populations.

William D. Coleman, a notable figure in this migration, was emancipated through the will of his former owner, James Wardlaw, who had stipulated freedom for Coleman and others as part of a plan for emigration to Liberia. In 1853, Coleman and his family set sail for their new home, with Burrowes describing their transition as initially difficult but ultimately a step toward autonomy away from plantations.

During a recent visit to Liberia, ABC News discovered structures reminiscent of American architecture, reflecting the influence of Coleman’s descendants. These connections are embodied in the phrase “Kentucky in Africa,” as observed by Martin Coleman, who emphasized the labor skills possessed by enslaved individuals that facilitated construction in Liberia.

Liberia declared its independence in 1847, with Coleman eventually becoming the country’s 13th president. The family’s legacy expanded beyond Liberia, as some descendants returned to the U.S. during the Liberian Civil War. James Coleman shared insights into this return, highlighting the dual relationship between America and Liberia as a continuous cycle of connection.

The Coleman family annually holds a reunion, having transformed from a small gathering to an assembly of up to 300 members from both nations. Genevieve Coleman-Garnett emphasized the importance of maintaining knowledge of their heritage. Committed to honoring their roots, the family has established a foundation dedicated to supporting development efforts in Liberia, as James Coleman articulated a strong desire to contribute positively to their ancestral homeland.

The establishment of Liberia underscores the resilience and determination of formerly enslaved Black Americans to attain freedom. Through the efforts of the American Colonization Society, thousands were able to resettle in Africa and build a new life, while retaining their cultural legacy. The ongoing connection between Liberia and its American descendants serves as a testament to their shared history and commitment to future contributions toward Liberia’s development. As the Coleman family continues to celebrate their heritage, they exemplify the enduring bonds that link these two nations.

Original Source: abcnews.go.com