In 1799, New York enacted a gradual emancipation law. By July 4, 1827, all enslaved persons remaining in the state were legally free. This marked the full end of slavery in New York, a major economic and moral milestone in antebellum America. On Independence Day, Black churches and communities held services of prayer and thanksgiving. William Hamilton delivered a keynote at Mother AME Zion Church in Manhattan, declaring, “no more shall negro and slave be synonymous.” Celebrations remained cautious, given fears of white supremacist backlash, and the holiday’s solemn tone reflected both triumph and uncertainty. It stands as a documented legal and cultural turning point, affirmed by historical records like Freedom’s Journal and legislative votes. blackwestchester.com
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