Uncle Tom's Cabin

Definition

A novel written by Harriet Beecher Stowe in 1852 that depicted the harsh conditions for enslaved African Americans. The book had significant influence on attitudes toward African Americans and slavery in the U.S., helping fuel the abolitionist movement.

Related terms

Harriet Beecher Stowe: An American abolitionist and author who wrote "Uncle Tom's Cabin".

Fugitive Slave Act: A law passed in 1850 requiring all escaped slaves to be returned to their owners if caught in any U.S. state.

Abolitionist Literature: Written works produced with the aim of ending slavery.