He is finally able to do so through the help of a former slave who serves as translator. ... Because they were not born into slavery in Cuba, as the Spanish claim, they are no one's property. The hard task was convincing the judge that they slaves were indeed born free in Africa. ... Letting the slaves go free would set a precedent that could very well lead to civil war. With Adams" help, they are able to convince the Supreme Court to let the Africans go free or return to Africa if they so choose. ...

• Word Count: 592
• Approx Pages: 2
• Grade Level: High School

On the fourth night at sea, the slaves freed themselves. ... Pedro Montes and Jose Ruiz lives were spared because their help was needed in steering the ship. ... He shook hands with Cinque and told him, "God willing, we will make you free." ... The Spanish government was angry and confused by the Court's action. ... Some of these freed men tried to raise money by dancing and singing. ...

• Word Count: 1082
• Approx Pages: 4
• Grade Level: High School

After the war, American markets were filled with cheap British goods, which did not help the Americans. Henry Clay created the American System to try and help create a more self-sufficient economy, but one part of the country opposed each section of his plan. ... If it went through, it would tip the balance of slave states and free states. ... The US also faced problems with Spain, as their colonies in North America had begun to rebel. ...

• Word Count: 515
• Approx Pages: 2
• Grade Level: High School

The movie takes place in 1839 and tells the story of fifty-three Africans who after being kidnapped and sold into slavery, revolted, broke free and finally took control of the slave ship transporting them. ... While some abolitionists were trying to convince the judge that the slaves should be set free because of illegal capture, we see many parties such as the Spanish crown claiming the possession of the slaves. ... Hopkins comes in the picture to help a young lawyer, Roger Baldwin, played by Matthew McConaughey, when the case is brought in the front of the Supreme Court. ... For e...

• Word Count: 976
• Approx Pages: 4