William Wells Brown

William Wells Brown

Writer. Abolitionist

William Wells Brown (1814–1884) was an African American abolition orator and writer. Brown’s autobiography detailed his escape from slavery. He also authored novels, plays, a travel book, and nonfiction works, including a history of Black soldiers in the American Revolutionary War.

• Observatory Articles
• Full Bio

Latest by this author

Narrative of William W. Brown, a Fugitive Slave

Classics

This 1847 memoir was written by prominent activist and writer William Wells Brown to support the abolitionist movement. It chronicles Brown’s cruel treatment as an enslaved man, the horrors that he witnessed, and his multiple escape attempts for freedom. Note: This book is part of a historical collection and may include offensive language.

History | Public Domain | English | 1847

William Wells Brown (1814–1884) was an African American writer and abolitionist. As a young man Brown escaped slavery, running from Ohio to Massachusetts. He wrote an autobiography about his time in bondage and gave lectures for the abolitionist movement. He also published novels, plays, works of nonfiction, and a travel book.

Research areas