CHRONOLOGY

• – Declaration of Independence is adopted.
• – Virginia adopts state bill of rights.

• – State constitutions are completed.

• – Pennsylvania institutes gradual emancipation.

• – Several Massachusetts slaves sue for freedom.

• – Massachusetts enfranchises taxpaying free blacks.

• – Gradual emancipation laws are passed in Rhode Island and Connecticut.

• – Gradual emancipation law is passed in New York.

• – Gradual emancipation law is passed in New Jersey.