> CHRONOLOGY

1776

  • Declaration of Independence adopted.

  • Virginia adopts state bill of rights.

1778

  • State constitutions completed.

1780

  • Pennsylvania institutes gradual emancipation.

1781

  • Several Massachusetts slaves sue for freedom.

1783

  • Massachusetts enfranchises taxpaying free blacks.

1784

  • Gradual emancipation laws passed in Rhode Island and Connecticut.

1799

  • Gradual emancipation law passed in New York.

1804

  • Gradual emancipation law passed in New Jersey.