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SUGGESTIONS.

ON THE IMPORTANCE OF TH

Cultivation of Cotton in Attica,

IN REFERENCE TO THE
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ABOLITION OF SLAVERY IN THE UNITED STATES,

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OBSERVATIONS ADDRESSED TO THE FRIENDS OF EMIGRATION AMONG ma COLORED

POPULATION OF THE NORTHERN STATES. .
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BY A COLONIZATIONIST.

Pa PHILADELPHIA:
" PRINTED AT THE EVENING REGISTER JOB OFFICE.
| 1854.

PREFACE.

Tue “Suggestions on the Cultivation of Cotton in Africa,” in
reference to the “ Abolition of Slavery in America,” were written
for “ Friends’ Review,” as affording to conscientious opponents of
Slavery one mode of action, that promises to be very effective, with-
out interfering with other measures tending to the same result.
To the intelligent and energetic among the free colored popula~
tion of the United States, who desire an opportunity of acting ef
ficiently on behalf of their enslaved brethren in the Southern
States, this plan offers a field of labor in which their exertions
may be eminently useful; and while immediately placing them-
selves in a position of entire independence, and on a perfect equal-
ity with every race and nation, they will enjoy the gratification of
knowing that they are, at the same time, accomplishing the glori-
ous work of regenerating an entire Continent, and of elevating an
oppressed and degraded people to the enjoyment of the blessings _
of Christianity and a high civilization for ages to come.

If the conviction of such great results attending their labors,
shall fail to arouse them to a sense of duty, it is difficult to con-
ceive nobler views or higher motives that can call forth their ex-
ertions. :

Believing that this is a subject appealing directly to the sym-
pathies, and the best interests of the whole colored population of
the United States,—although but few of them may he willing at
present to undertake the work in the manner contemplated,—a
few friends, who have read the “Suggestions” in the “Review,”
have requested the writer to have them reprinted in pamphlet
form, for the benefit of those who are likely to be interested in the
subject.. In now presenting it to them, it is without assuming to-
dictate to any portion of people what their individual duty or in-
terest may require. Yet, the great fact stands unquestioned, that
here is an important work to be performed, in the Civilization and

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Christianization of Africa, in the abolition of Slavery throughout
the world, and in the education and elevation of the African race,
wherever scattered. And who are so well qualified for this as the
intelligent and educated colored people of the United States?
While it is undoubtedly the duty of all christian men, irrespective
of country or race, to aid the oppressed, and recognize a brother
in distress as appealing to the heart and conscience of every one
in whatever situation he may be placed : yet, who will deny that
the great wants of Africa appeal for aid directly and forcibly to
her educated and civilized children, now in the United States?
Some will find the path of duty and the opportunity of usefulness
by remaining in the American States—in the endeavors to elevate
their brethren here, while resisting, as far as they may be able,
the mountain of prejudice that crushes them. And every effort
of this kind should receive not only the best wishes, but encour-
agement and aid from all true Christians.
itis far from the design of the writer to discourage, in any.
way, such praiseworthy efforts; but should the most sanguine
hopes ofsuch be realized in a reasonably short space of time—
should Frederick Douglass be elected to the Congress of the United.
States, and admitted to take his seat as one of the law-makers of
the Country, a position his talents well qualify him for—and
should entire political equality be accorded to every colored man
in all the Free States, which is their undoubted right: still it is
to be feared that it will be long, very long, before they can place
themselves upon a perfect social equality with the white race—
without which their political right will be of little benefit. What
rapid advance must true Christianity make in these United States,
‘before the American people can be brought to acknowledge the
common brotherhood of man? And is every descendant of Africa _
willing to remain and suffer from the great, all-pervading prejus
dice against his race until this millennium arrives, merely because
, he was born here, because this is his “native land” from which he
| will not be “expatriated?” No, they are not, A feeling in favor of
_ emigration is now spreading among many intelligent colored men;
| but still it is no less strange than true, that the leading and influ-
| ential men among them have their attention turned to Canada,
| the West Indies, Mexico, Central America, and even South
| America, in preference:to Africa, where the great mass of thir race
| reside, and where civilized and christian States are already form-
| ed, and are carrying commerce and civilization into the very centre
\of that long neglected but productive country. Strong as the pre-

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judice. against the American Colonization Society is known to be
among all classes of the colored population of the United States,
is it not passing strange that such men as Dr. Martin. R. Delany,
of Pittsburgh; Mr.J.M: Whitfield, of Buffalo; Mr J. Theodore
Holley, of Detroit; with many other intelligent and educated
colored men, should issue a cail for an emigration convention, in
which all discussion, not only in regard to the colonization move-
ment, but the merits and advantages of Liberia, or Sierra Leone, or
any part of Africa, is to be entirely forbidden in the remarks of
their speakers! They will have free discussion, provided no one
mentions Africa! Believing that much good will arise from this
plan of bringing together the most intelligent men from the differ-
ent sections of the Union to interchange their views on all sub-
jects pertaining to their advancement in this Country, or the
advantages offered enterprising emigrants to other Jan¢s—
and believing also that Messrs Delany, Whitfield, Holly, and others
who intend soon to hold a Convention at Cleaviand, do not mean
to be so proscriptive as their call would lead many to suppose,
the writer makes this address particularly to them, known as
he is to them as a “Colonizatoinist,” as well as a thorough op-
ponent of slavery and all its concomitants, fugitive slave laws, &c.
in the hopes that on reflection they will so modify their rules as
to allow a discussion on the advantages offered by every country
in the known world, that the black man may be just as free as
the white man to seek such a home as will most advance his
interest.

It cannot be that any number of intelligent black men can be
found who will shut out the claims of Africato their sympathies ;
but with increased knowledge of the capabilities of the African
continent, the great advantages it presents in many respects to
enterprising colored emigrants from the United States, who can
take with them the means for developing the resources of the
country, and thus introduce in every successive year an im-
proved civilization, must the interest in Africa increase.

The writer presents these remarks solely on his own responsi-
bility; feeling a strong interest in the civilization and christian-
ization of Africa, as well as in the welfare ofthe whole African race
in the United States, and having devoted much of his time to the
cause of African Colonization, he will with pleasure give any
information on the subject that he may possess to those who
may desire it.

Catton Cultivation in Attia,

From Friend’s Review.

We present to our readers this week, the first portion of a com-
munication from a correspondent, who has long taken a deep
interest in the improvement of the condition of the African race.
The fact that the slavery which has blackened our prosperous
country, and exposed our profession of freedom and liberality to
the censure and ridicule of people less free and enlightened than
we suppose ourselves to be, owes its support and continuance to
the market for its productions, is too obvious to require illustra-
tion or argument; and of the products of slave labor in the United
States, it is well known that Cotton constitutes an important part ;
so important, indeed, that we may fairly question whether the
system could be much longer sustained without it. Well may we
regret that an article so valuable in itself, and so conducive to
domestic convenience and comfort, should be made the basis, either
wholly or in part, of an institution so oppressive and degrading
as American slavery. There is certainly no reason why this por-
tion of the means which a bountiful Providence has furnished for
our use aud convenience, may not be cultivated, as well as any
thing else, by the hands of freemen.

‘Lhe soil and climate of Africa are shown to be remarkably suit-
ed to the production of cotton; and some of our English philan-
thropists have recently turned their attention to that Continent,
as a source from which they hope to procure a supply for their
factories, and thus obviate the necessity of resorting to the slave-
fed markets of the United States. It may be hoped that the time
will come, and at no distant day, when the native African will
a0 longer be carried across the Atlantic, and subjected to all the
horrors of a middle passage, to perform these labors in the west- »
ern world, which he can perform with greater advantage, under
the stimulus of hope, in his native land. Let free labor in Africa
be brought, under proper regulations, into competition with the
slave labor of the United &tates, and the fetters of slavery will not
, long hold together. Enligh

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tened self-interest will dissolve them, _

CULTIVATION OF COTTON IN AFRICA.

A few suggestions on the importance of the Cultivation of Cotton in
Africa, in reference to the abolition of Slavery in Ameriea.

By the true philanthropist of the present day, whose sympa-
thies are enlisted for the oppressed of all countries, and of every
race, any suggestion that may lead to even a partial improvement
of condition will be received with favor. Andon the people of
the United States chiefly rests the responsibility of discovering
the best mode of emanelipating three and a half millions of bond-
men in their*midst; of providing for their future welfare,
when emancipated. This has been deemed so difficult a subject
—so complex in its political, social, and economical bearings, that
many well-disposed persons have been willing to pass it by, as a
question to be solved by time, or by the superior wisdom of a fu-
ture age; although aware that every successive year increases
and strengthens the evil.

But there are some who believe that the present is the proper
time for action, and that they have a duty to perform in this great
work, that should not be neglected. To such it is desired to make
a few suggestions, under a belief that, with proper effort, much
may be done now to effect the desired result, and that measures
may be commenced immediately, which will eventuate, at no dis-
tant period, in a general emancipation, without violence of any
kind, and without any collision with the laws of the land.

As slavery originated in the spirit of gain, by which alone it is
still sustained, it is proposed to make use of the same agency to
accomplish its overthrow. It is generally conceded that the
profit derived from the culture of Cotton is the chief support of
slavery in America, and this being the most vulnerable point, is
that towards which the attack on the institution should be direct-
ed; for whatever shall prove available in making slave labor
unprofitable, must of course cause the demand for that labor to
cease. It is proposed to accomplish this result by means of the
cultivation of cotton in Africa, with the use of free labor. As
the soil of Africa is much more fertile than that of the United
States, and is particularly adapted to the growth of Cotton, the
advantages in its favor must be apparent to the most superfi-
cial observer; for not only can all the best varieties at present
cultivated in the United States, be more cheaply raised in West
ern or Central Africa, but there are several kinds indigenous to

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that continent, of superior quality, thet have been highly ap-

proved in the English market. When it is remembered that
this plant is perennial in Africa, and produces very much
more than it does in America, where it must be planted annual-
ly, the superiority of the former over the latter will be very ob-
vious; but in comparing the cost of labor in the two countries,
the difference is still greater in faver of the free labor of Africa,
over the slave labor of America.

To make this apparent to the most skeptical, it is only neces-
sary to compare the value of slaves in Africa, with the market
price of the same class of laborers in fle United States. The
foreign slave traders usually pay from geemete—fttern’ dollars for
each slave, in trade-goods at an enormous profit; so that the cash
value of a good field-hand may be safely estimated at from five
to ten dollars; while the same laborerin America would cost 1rom
five hundred to one thousand dollars. This comparison shows
the real difference in the vaiue of labor to be estimated in calcu-
lating the relative cost of the production of this important staple,
the variation in the price of which so seriously effects our com-
mercial prosperity as to make the information respecting it of
the first importance on every arrival from Europe. As this com-
parison, however, is only between slave labor in the two coun-
tries, and as the object of encouraging the increased production
of cotton in Africa, is to liberate the bondman there as well as
here, some may be inclined to doubt whether the native African,
in a state of freedom, can be so stimulated by the love of gain and
the hope of improving his condition, as to compete successfully
with the compulsory labor used here. But it must be remem-
bered how vast is the population of Africa, and that the employ-
‘ment of even a very small part of it, for a few hours each day,
would give a greater amount of labor than that obtained by com-
pulsion from the smaller number in the-United States. And
when we take into view the difference in the cost of living, the
exceeding productiveness of the soil, and that much less clothing
is required in that tropical climate than with us, may we not
reasonably calculate from these facts, that Cotton, more than equal
to the whole product of the United States, can be obtained from
the free sons of Africa in their native land, at less than one-half
of its present cost, while amply compensating the laborer and, at
the same time, greatly improving his condition in other respects ?
This plan is, then, simply to make the immense profits at present
derived by the slave-trader from his iniquitous business, togeth-

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er with the great emolument accruing to the planter in the Um-
ted States from the unrequited labor of his slaves, both available
to the African himself. And the same process that thus benefits
the free laborer, as a necessary consequence liberates the bondman
in America, and emancipates the uncounted millions of slaves
in Africa; for itis not to be supposed that slavery will continue
long anywhere when it is found to be unprofitable.

All the Bible arguments of Southern theologians, or the patriotic
appeals of pro-slavery politicians, will not avail to sustain an ins-
titution that occasions a clear loss to every individual connected
with it. Both slavery itself and its adjunct, the fugitive slave law,
will then be numbered with the things that were; instead of laws
for the protection of this species of property, we shall see, as John
Randolph predicted, the master running away from the slave.
Succeeding generations will read the history of the present time
in constant wonder that such an institution as human slavery
could have existed so long among a professedly Christian and en-
lightened people, glorying in an eminent degree in the Republican
principles of their government.

Assuming, then, that the free labor of Africa “may be made
available, if properly applied, to the abolition of slavery in beth
countries, the question will naturally arise, as to the best mode
of accomplishing so desirable an object in the shortest time pos-
sible; and also that the greatest amount of good, as well as the
chiet profit, shall result to the advantage of the entire Atrican
race.

To this end, care should be taken that the business of collect-
ing, cleaning, pressing, and exporting the Cotton, should not be
monopolized either by English or American capitalists, nor by
any associations of white men, with even very philanthropic
views in regard to the abolition of slavery. The most suitable
agents to promote the success of the measure, whose exertions
could be made to advance their own interest and that of their
posterity. while they were using the most effective measures for
eradicating one of the greatest evils of the present age, are enter-
prising colored men from the United States, properly educated, so
as to be qualified for the work, and who are capable of appreci-
ating the immence benefits to the world that must result from
their labors. These men could form settlements on the whole
Western coast of Africa, between the parallels of 20 deg. North
and 20 deg. South latitude, which would include Upper and Lower
Guinea and Gambia—selecting, of course, the most eligible points

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on the coast not already possessed by other powers, from whence _
they could gradually extend themselves into the interior. They
would thus be enabled to control the vast and continually increas-
ing commerce of a hitherto unexplored region, comprising the
large: and better portion of Central Africa—sufficient of itself,
with the improvements in cultivation naturally introduced by
civilization, to form a large and very lucrative portion of the com-
merce of the world.

The important results that must follow from the success of this
scheme, cannot fail to strike every one who will give it attention.
The downfall of American slavery is inevitable, and with it the
whole system of servitude throughout the world; for, with the a
great advantages thus shown that Africa possesses for the culti-
vation of Cotton over the more expensive lands and labor in
America, is it to be doubted for amoment that it can be profitably
raised at much less than one half of the price it has commanded wm
the United States for many years past ?

Cotton, however, is not the only article of general consumption
produced by slave labor, that can be more cheaply cultivated in
Africa by freemen. Coffee and Rice grow there luxuriently, and
have already been raised to a considerable extent and with com-
paratively little labor; both being indigenious to that Continent,
and the Liberia Coffee is considered one of the best varieties in
the English market, where it commands a high price, and for that
reason but little is imported into the United States.

This plan for eradicating one of the greatest evils that afflicts
so large a portion of the human race, and our own country in par-
ticular, may seem so plain, when viewed in the light of its com-
mercial importance alone, and yet so simple in the means pro-
posed for carrying it into effect, that many will be inclined to ask
why it has not been tried before, if so efficatious as here represent-
ed for the accomplishment of its object ? This would be a natural
question, and the answer is this: The agents who would be best
adapted to the work in most respects, have not been properly ed-
ucated for it ; the influences surrounding them in this country have
all been of a depressing nature, calculated to discourage any noble
aspirations that would lead them to promote the welfare of their
race, and to achieve for it a higher position in the estimation of
the world than it has yet attained ; and from this want of a knowl-
edge of their own capabilities, they have been too long contented
with the most servile occupations. In addition, however, to the
want of information among the mass of our colored population, in

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~ regard tothe measures best calculated to advance their welfare, and
to which must be attributed much of thelack of energy and enter-
prise among them, a large majority, including some of the most
intelligent and best educated portion, have imbibed very strong
prejudices against the scheme of African Colonization, as conduct-
ed by the American Colonization Society, from the fact that many
slaveholders, as well as non-slaveholders, are interested in, and
patronize the enterprise. The great mortality that occurred in
some of the earlier expeditions that formed the settlement of the
present Republic of Liberia, has given rise to very incorrect views
as to the salujgpity of the climate, and has led the colored man
to overlook thereat advantages that must result to himself, to
his posterity, and to the entire race, from a vigorous and judicious
prosecution of the scheme in the manner here indicated. It is,
however, not desirable that a very large proportion of our colored
population should at once emigrate to Africa, much less a general
exodus ; butif only fifty thousand of the intelligent and educated
should be induced to settle there within the next ten years, what
might they not accomplish ? This would be but one-tenth of the
free colored population of the United States, and only equal to
about one per cent. per annum. Yet this number, distributed in
some eight or ten different settlements along the coast, would form
the nucleus of probably as many independent States, hereafter to
form a confederacy similar to our own; and, as they would natu-
rally adopt Republican principles, might in less than half a century
_ show a more important destiny for this race, in the civilization
and christianization of Africa, and perform a more important part
in the great work of the world’s redemption, than many of their
best friends have ever anticipated. If it should be objected that
this calculation is not entirely within the bounds of moderation, that
the effects hoped for are too great for the means employed, we
have only to look at our own country to see the vast results of
colonization from small beginnings ; or to realize what has been
accomplished within the last few years in California and Australia,
and then ask ourselves if the colored man has not greater induce-
ments, at this time, to emigrate to Africa, than our forefathers
had, in their day, to emigrate to America? And is the prospect
of gain that yearly takes so many thousands to the gold fields of
California or Australia, to be compared with the great advantages
accruing to the enterprising emigrant to Western Africa ?

If any one doubts the capability of colored men to overcome

difficulties in establishing for themselves an independent govern-

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ment, and in spreading the blessiigs of civilization and christian- —
ity among the savage people, he has only to cast his eyes on
Liberia to see what has already been achieved by a few thousand
of the same class,a large majority of whom were emancipated _
slaves, without any previous education or the least experience in
the great work they have so successfully accomplished. Liberia
has fully established the capacity of the African race for self-gov-
ernment and the highest degree of civilization, and she stands at
this moment as the most successful example of colonization to be
found in the annals of history. We.

There we see an independent government ged on strictly
Republican principles, modelled after our owngrespects, slavery
excepted, established and creditably conducted by less than ten
thousand of the African race, most of them from a state of bond-
age in America, and of whom not one hundred ever had an edu-
cation in this country such as is to be obtained in our best schools.
They were aided, indeed, in the first instance by the labors of a
few of the self-denying and devoted friends of this oppressed peo-
ple, among whom the names of Ashmun and Buchanan should
be held in grateful remembrance by every true hearted black man
in Africa or America. |

Liberia is now enjoying a high degree of prosperity, and occu-
pies an honored and most respectable position among the civilized
governments of the world, her sovereignty and independence
having been acknowledged by Great Britain, France, Prussia,
Belgium and Brazil, with all of whom she interchanges national
civilities, and a mutually lucrative trade; her flag and her rev-
enue laws-are respected by the vessels of all nations, and her
citizens meet on equal terms those from Europe or America who
visit her ports in the pursuit of commerce, or in the employment
of their respective countries. On the two occasions when her
chief magistrate visited Europe, he was received with distinguish-
ed consideration by the nobility and crowned heads, and by the
virtuous of other classes of the most powerful and most refined
nations of the Eastern continent. Liberia, however, still needs
the sympathy and aid of her friends in extending the benefits
of education among her growing population, as both the govern-
ment and people are far from a state of affluence. Yet they
have overcome most of the difficulties incident to the settle
ment of a new country, especially that great obstacle, the slave
trade, with which they had to contend for many years, and
which resisted them with all its pow

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moatirrne tania a fe 3;

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- slave trade is now entirely destroyed, not only within their own
b rders, but it is prohibited in u// their treaties with the native
kings who have sought their friendship. The liberians have
otherwise exerted « healthful influence in the suppression of wars
between the different tribes with whom they have had intercourse.
The cultivation of Coffee has been prosecuted to a considerable
extent in Liberia, and within the last year or two some attention
has been given to the culture of Cotton.

With these facts before us, showing what has already been
accomplished by a handful of comparatively uneducated people,
what may we not expect from a much greater number, properly
educated for the work? May we not safely calculate on
benefits as important to the werld from the colonization of Africa
by intelligent and well educated black men, as have been achiev-
ed by our own race in the colonization of America? And if so,
should not all the opponents of slavery, and all the sincere friends
of the colored race, unite their efforts to promote so important an
enterprise? In urging, however, the great value of this depart-
ment of anti-slavery labor, it is by no means our intention to
undervalue other efforts in the same cause, especially the moral
influence that may be brought to bear upon the great system of
oppression and wrong by the judicious and well directed efforts of
able writers, who forget not the law of love and Christian obliga-
tion while exposing enormities to which the system of slavery
is Hable. The works of John G. Whittier, Harriet Beecher Stowe,
and others of the same class, will be fully appreciated by those
who desire some practicable plan in which all may labor who
desire to accomplish, at the earliest period possible, the abolition of
so deep-rooted and wide spread an evil. Neither will the friends
of free labor deem it necessary to confine their efforts to any one
point, however important that may be shown to be.

It is also to be hoped that the idea of extending the culture of
flax in our Northern and Western States, may be realized by those
who desire thereby to make it a substitute fur Cotton in the man-
ufacture of many articles for the home market. It is therefore de-
sirable that the very able and interesting essays on this subject,
that have appeared in the “Review,” may be extensively read by
those who are interested in this question. When it is remem-
-bered that the entire yearly consumption of Cotton in England
alone is upwards of 800,000,000 of lbs., and of this 79 per cent., or
more than three-fourths, is raised in the United States, 1t will be
readily perceived how indispensable it is that we should under-

14

mine this powerful support of slavery, in our plans for the over-
throw of the institution. This done, we may safely leave the repeal
of all fugitive slave laws, and the answer to all pro-slavery argu-
ments, to the slaveholders themselves. Make slavery obviously

_ unprofitable, and the work is done.

In this view of the case, our first and great duty would seem
to be, to raise the colored man from his present state, infuse into
him a noble ambition. to occupy a more elevated position in the
world, and to qualify him to act the part which appears to be so
clearly marked out for him in this age of progress.

With a liberal education, it is not to be supposed that he will
fail to recognize the responsibility resting on him, and learn to
know that itis on his own exertions he must mainly depend to
become a useful and respected member of society; he will then
see the importance of immediate action, to secure for himself and
his children some of the advantages that the Continent of Africa
offers to the enterprising emigrants who seek her shores ; and hav-
ing thus secured a home for themselves, and laid the foundation
of an extensive Christian empire, will soon be able to receive all
of their brethren whose interest or adventurous spirit may lead
them to seek a new abode from under the dominion of “the proud
and imperious Saxon,” where their labor will be estimated at its
proper value. Our duty, however, will be but partially performed
to a long-neglected portion of our brethren, by freeing them from
actual bondage, without, at the same time, making provision for
their future welfare. We must bear in mind that the prejudice
arising from a long course of degradation will not soon be eradi-
cated after chattel slavery shall have ceased; that while we may
grant them entire equality under the law, in accordance with

our republican creed, yet that social equality which cannot be

looked for until the feeling of brotherly love, engendered by a truer
spirit of Christianity, than at present prevails, shall have perva-
ded the mass of the community; and as this work will be a work
of years, many of the free spirits among our colored brethren
may not be willing to await this “ good time coming;” and when
the certainty of a general emancipation is made manifest to our
Southern brethren, it is to be hoped that there will be shown a
liberal and Christian spirit toward their slaves, that will mduce
them to allow such educational privileges as will prepare them to
become useful citizens, either in the land of their nativity or that
of their adoption. Many, no doubt, will still be employed as labor-
ers in the Southern States, where their services, to a certain ex-

15

tent, will be indispensable, while others will seek new residences,
in which they can immediately become landed proprietors. To
provide for a large emigration of this nature, consequent upon
the success of the measures indicated for the overthrow of slavery,
abroad and sure foundation should be laid, upon which these
new African States will be erected.

In asking the attention of the friends of the African race to this
subject, it is respectfully suggested, that much may be done to- -
wards the object at the present time, by extending the facilities.
of education to the different towns and settlements in Liberia, in
establishing primary, high, and normal schools for both males and
females, and also by furnishing each settlement with the necessary
machine for cleaning and pressing Cotton. These must be ex-
tended as new settlements are formed, whether under the auspi-
ces of the American Colonization Society, or by individual enter-
prise; both of these measures were considered desirable by our
friends Eli and Sybil Jones, who visited Liberia a year or two
since, neither of the objects being within the province of the Col-
onization Society ; and as the emigrants are generally very poor,
they require all their means for the cultivation of their farms.
Capital is, therefore, much needed by them for such purposes.
To secure the accomplishment of this plan on a scale commensu-
rate with the important end to be attained, combined effort will
be necessary ; and as the measures proposed do not come within

-the prescribed duties of any existing organization, the object will
probably be effected in the surest manner by a union of all the
friends of freedom in America, whose sympathy for the oppressed
is not limited by geographical boundaries or national sovereignty,
in an association with the philanthropists of Great Britain, (or in
such manner as shall receive their co-operation;) and as distin-
guishing the society, and explaining its object, it might be called
“The African Civilization Society.” It would occupy a different
field of labor from any other anti-slavery association, and thus be
free from the objection of many, whose exertions have been limi-
ted to mere partial measures. There are in our religious Society
many who deeply feel the wrongs of slavery, and who would glad-
ly avail themselves of an opportunity of more extended useful-
ness, but who have not deemed it their duty to take an active
part in the political conflict that the slavery question has engen-
dered. Such will probably see in this quiet and peaceful, yet most
effective mode of overcoming the principal obstacle to our national
prosperity, the way made clear for extending more enlightened

= |

16

views of governmental policy to the nations of the world,some of

whom may have been deterred from adopting our professed prin-
ciples from the ee of our practice, in continuing an
institution at variance with both the obvious precepts of Chris-
tianity and our boasted republicanism.

The Editor of the “ New York Colonization Journal,” in copy-
ing into that paper the suggestionson Cotton Cultivation in Africa,
copies also the following remarks of the Editor of the “ Review,”
with his corrections, showing that “Colonizationists’ do not

hold the views that many have imputed to them. *4..7 {1a Sib

{ :
« f : ‘oa
Sia i ical aed aes ES a: A Va CAs Roe Noo

COFFEE AND COTTON CULTIVATION IN LIBERIA.

We cheerfully transfer from the Friends’ Review two numbers
of a communication from a correspondent, C., on the cultivation
of Cotton, Sugar, and Coffee in Africa, as throwing light upon the
path of dut a and expediency for our intelligent colored population.

In introducing the second number of the series, the Kditor of
the Friends’ Review makes the following remarks :

‘“‘ In continuing the suggestions of our correspondent, relative
to the cultivation in Africa of those productions which are usually
brought into the market through the instrumentality of servile
labor, it may be proper to rem: whe that neither the writer of the

‘ suewestions’ nor the Editor of the Review designs to give any
countenance to the scheme of compulsory emigration, or to the
wild and visionary project of transporting the whole colored race,
now in the United States, to what is sometimes termed their fi
therland. The right of the colored man to remain, as long as in-
terest or inclination dictates, in the land which gave him birth,
is no more liable to question or doubt than that of any other class
of our diversified population. Though the colored race in the
United States are in actual possession of much less than their
relative portion of the wealth of the country, there can be no ra-
tional doubt of their having performed their full share of the
labor, though probably not of the skill, which has brougit it mto
existence.

“The establishment, however, 2 colonies on the African coast,
constituted of persons fitted by nature to flourish in a tropical cli-

mate, and prepared by education to carry the blessings of civiliza-
tion and Christianity to that benighted continent, is a very
= affair from the project which the declarations fi many

ad fF col tion. ho» :

\

jut

bute to them : that of clearing off the free colored race, in order
to render the possession of their slaves more secure. Such emi-
erants as some of those mentioned in this week’s paper, may
reasonably be expected to exercise a salutary influence, wherever
they may be located on the African shore. If the emigrants
could contain a good sprinkling of such characters, we might
confidently hope to see, in a few years, well-constituted Repub-
lies spreading along the coast, stretching into the interior, and
proving, by ocular demonstration, the capacity of the negro race
to establish and support free covernments. When William Penn
was about locating on the banks of the Delaware a colony with
a government which he intended as a model for ages to come, he
remarked in a letter to one of his friends, while still m Europe,
‘There may be room there, though not here, for such an holy
experiment ; and it may be said that there is room in Africa,
though not in the United States, to try the experiment of en-
trusting the colored race with the government of themselves.
The experiment has indeed been tried there and has succeeded.
A few more, if equally successful, might perhaps lead some to
imagine that their admission here to a share in the enactment
and administration of the laws to which they are expected to yield
obedience, would not be such an absurdity as it has been supposed.”

While agreeing in the main with the above, we demur on two
or three points to the implication conveyed as to the sentiments
of Colonizationists.

The Editor, in seeming deprecation of censure for having in-
serted the communication of C., remarks, that “neither the cor-
respondent nor the Editor designs to give any countenance to the
scheme of compulsory emigration, or to the wild and visionary pro-
ject of transporting the whole colored race, now in the United
States, to what is sometimes termed their fatherland.” As to
compulsory emigration, the Colonization Society carefully, from
its origin, ouarded itself on this point by a constitutional provision,
confining its operations “ to promote and execute a plan for col-
onizing, with their own consent, the free people of color,” and by
this very limitation denied beforehand the charge ef proposing
“a scheme of pane y emigration, or “a wild and visionary
project of transporting the whole colored race.” Let it be under-
stood, therefore, that’the Editor of the Review did not properly
refer to any thing chargeable to the Colonization Society, when he
made the remark just quoted, but tosome supposed theory of State

18

legislation, or individual argument or theory, as to what would
be practicable or desirable.

We quote again from the editorial as follows: “ The right of
the colored man to remain as long as interest or inclination
dictate,” &c., &. The Colonization Society was not founded on
any theory which questioned or controverted the “right,” but
upon the expediency and wisdom of his emigrating, and the be-
nevolence, in view of all the circumstances present and prospect-
ive of his condition, of promoting a plan for his voluntary emi-
gration.

To assert the right implies that it has been denied, and we wish
simply to defend the Colonization Society from the imputation of
such denial. The “right” being then admitted to remain or to
emigrate at their option, there remains simply this question be-
tween the promoters of the plan of Colonization and their opposers :
Which is acting most wisely, and with the greatest practical be-
nevolence—he who advocates and encourages voluntary emigra-
tion, or he who opposes and discourages? Remarks upon the
“suggestions” of C. we reserve for another number.

The following articles will be found to confirm the statement
with regard_to the advantages of Africa, in both soil and climate,
for the production of cotton :

“From Friends’ Review.”

The brief notice which appears in one of our columns, respect-
ing the culture of cotton in Algeria, is a corroboration of some of
the remarks of our correspondent C., as given in preceding num-
bers. Ifthe French can raise cotton in Algeria, where labor is
not so cheap as in many other parts of Africa, surely the Eng-
lish also may obtain it from partsof the same contient which
are accessible to them. .

AFRICAN COTTON.

France is becoming every day more and more a cotton produc-

ing country. The very full and explicit details given by our

_ Paris correspondent some weeks since, on the increased cultiva-

tion of cotton in Algeria, certainly denote that not without reason

does the French government believe that ina few years France

will grow, on its own soil, Cotton enough for its own manufactur-
‘Ing wants.— Dasly Register.

7
| a) 2 —

19

AFRICAN COTTON.
Dr Irving, a missionary to Africa, has written the annexed re-
marks. The letter is published in the proceedings of the Royal
Geographical Society :
» “In December, 1853, I was ordered on service to Abbeokuta,
with Commander Foote, then senior officer. There I was much
struck with the superior appearance of the people and their great
capabilities, the productiveness of the soil, the variety of objects
which might lead to an extensive and lucrative commerce with
England, more especially that of cotton, which is indigenous, and
carefully cultivated by the Yarubas. These comprise a popula-
tion of nearly three million souls, clothed entirely in cloths man-
ufactured by themselves.

On my return to England, I represented these things tothe Church
Missionary Society, and many of the samples of African produc-
tions I brought home excited great attention among manufac
turers and others. The cotton proved to be of the very quality
required for the purpose of manufacture. Among them was also
an entirely new kind of silk, respecting which several eminent
merchants in London are very anxious for. further information.
I volunteered to go out and examine the country between the
Niger, Bight of Benin, and Lander’s route, between Badagry and
Boussa, a country, excepting at one or two points where our
missionaries had been the pioneers, never yet visited by white
men. My offer was accepted, and I started as agent for Yaruba,
with the sanction of Sir James Graham and Lord Clarendon. The
necessary instruments for making observations have been forward-
ed to me.” —Colonization Herald.

COTTON FROM AFRICA,

On Saturday, advice was received in Manchester by Mr. Thomas
Clese, cotton spinner, of the arrival of five more bales, weighing
in the aggregate rather more than 1000 lbs. of raw cotton from
the coast of Africa. This makes Mr. Clege’s receipts io amount
to about 12,000 Ibs., as the result of the very important move-
ment which originated with him. Some three or four years ago,
learning that there was plenty of cotton growing wild near the
colony of Sierra Leone and the Church Missionary station, Abeo-
kuta, and that asit bloomed and ripened it dropped to the ground
and rotted, no one regarding it, he communicated with the officials
of the Church Missionary Society in London, and through them

20

sent £100 to the place named, with instructions that it was to be
expended by the missionaries in setting the natives to gather and
clean theindigenous produce, and to forward it as quickly as possi-
ble to England.

At the same time they were directed to lay before the chiefs
the advantageous opening which presented itself for the employ*
ment of their people, and how much better it would be to do that
than to pursue their horrid traffic in human flesh. This was a
direct appeal to a leading trait in the character of the native chiefs
of that part of the continent, for by the universal testimony of |
those who know them best, they are admitted to possess.a strong -
liking for money, and to be as clever at barter as any Yankee ped-
lar ; for trafficking, indeed, they seem to have a natural gift, which
only requires to be turned from slaves to cotton to enable us to
dispense with our squadron on that coast. The inducements held
out proved sufficient to attract attention, and in the year before
last a few hundred pounds were collected. Since then Mr. Clegg
has received above 10,000, exclusive of that which he received
the advice of on Saturday, and altogether at present every thing
points to great results at no distant period. But the duty of at-
tending to the collection and forwarding of the cotton has become
too large for the missionaries to undertake, and therefore two
agents are about to be sent out especially to undertake it. The
great aim at present is to show the chiefs that there is a market
for whatever cotton their people can collect of that which grows
without the necessity for bestowing more labor upon it than what
is required to gather it from the pod ; that effected, they will then
be asked to encourage its growth by cultivation. Mr. Clegg has
spun a quantity of the cotton himself, and has given some to four
firms, with the request that they will experiment upon it, and
favor him with a report.

In staple it is equal to Egyptian or good Orleans, used in
Spinning fine yarns for Nottingham and Leicester trade. The
price of cotton suited for such fine numbers has more than doub-
led within a comparatively brief period, and what was selling
at 92d. a pound, is now fetching 20d., and has been for some
time; so that this supply will come in most seasonably to meet
the scarcity of suitable sorts which the price indicates.

It must not be supposed, however, that all that has been de-
scribed has been accomplished by Mr Clego’s £100; that gentle-
man unloosed his purse-string when he saw success “ looming in
the future,” and he has been aided by other friends of the

21

African race, especially by Lady Buxton, who has contributed
£100 towards the fund for carrying on operations—WNorth
Ameriean.

_ COTTON CULTIVATION ON THE WESTERN COAST OF AFRICA.

The soil itselfis admirably adapted to the fructification of the
plant, and this is proved by the numerous specimens which are
to be seen in almost every piece of ground, spontaneously grow-
ing amongst the other shrubs and trees, and supplying large and
well filled pods of the soft downy substance. The rearing and cul-
tivation of the cotton plant would, in my opinion, be an accep-
table kind of employment to the African laborer: and, as the price
of wages is not high, and the time occupied in bringing it to per-
fection by no means slow, the return would plentifully reward
the planter as well as the purchaser. The quality of the article
produced from the cotton plant of Sierra Leone has already been
pronounced to be very good, and capable of a durable and yet fine
texture. ‘The extensive portions of land in the neighborhood of
Freetown, and indeed throughout the colony, which lie unculti-
vated, might be employed with advantage in the growth of this
article, for which they are in every respect fitted. The continent of
Africa, in fact, throughout, is, for the reasons already offered,
well suited to the cultivation of the cotton plant. Some years
ago considerable attention was paid to it, and the undertaking
promised every success. A large quantity of it was produced of
a superior quality, and the attempt only failed through want of
perseverance, good seed, and a thorough understanding of the
proper manner of conducting and carrying it out into practice.
The seed of the native was not supposed to be so good as that
which was imported, and for this reason the undertaking was
prematurely but foolishly relinquished. The natives themselves,
particularly as you advance more into the interior and up the
Gambia, grow a good deal of it, and make very capital cloths for
their own use from the material, which they work after their
own fashion. The opportunities afforded for the cultivation of
cotton in the vast tracts of land bounding that river, and the readi-
ness, I imagine, with which it would be undertaken and carried
on by their possessors, if a fair inducement was held out to them,
ought not to be passed over by our manufacturers at the present
crisis—Loole’s Sierra Leone and the Gambia.

LETTER FROM LIBERIA.

he writer of the “Suggestions on the Cultivation of Cotton in Africa,’ hag
announced himself as a Colonizationist,”’ and is fully aware ofthe very strong
prejudice that is entertained in regard to that term, by the mass of the colored
population generally, as wellas by many among their white friends, whose
opposition to the ‘American Colonization Society’? he is convinced has arisen
from a misconception of its objects, and of the motives and aims of its founders,
many of whom gave their lives to the cause, thus testifying in the strongest
manner possible, their devotion to what they conceiveda work of vast impor-
tance to Africa, and exemplifying a labor of love to a depressed and scattered people.

Without, however, discussing the subject further at this time, his principal
object is to draw the attention of the enterprising portion of our colored popula-
tion who are not satisfied with their progress here, to the wide sphere of action that
has been opened to them on the Continent of Africa. For this purpose he in-
troduces the following appeal, addressed “‘to the free colored population of the
United States,’ by the Rev. John Day, a colored Missionary of the Baptist
Church, who has resided upwards of twenty years in Liberia, and has devoted
himself to the cause of the improvement of his people, and of enlightening and
Christianizing the heathen of Africa. He is therefore competent to speak of
his adopted Country, and is a man universally respected and beloved, wherever

known. )
Philadelphia, August, 1854.

Bealey, Liberia, August 26th, 1853.

Eprror oF CoLonizaTIoN HERaLp:

Sir,—I have long been an observer of movements in the United
States in reference to the free colored people, and have also notic-
ed with much interest the feelings and views of my colored breth-
ren in reference to colonization and to this Republic; and feel to
rejoice that the Republic is attracting more attention and consid-
eration among them ; and desire through your columns toaddress
a letter to them.

To the free people of coler of the United States.

Dear Breruren,—When I have noticed the prohibitory and
oppressive laws enacted in many of the states in special reference
to you, I have wept and wondered wheiher every manly aspira-
tion of soul had been crushed in the colored man, or does he pan-
der to the notion that he belongs to an inferior race, and that he
must hew wood, draw water, and crouch to every indignity, con-
tempt, and oppression which others may impose on him. Or does
he not believe that God has planted a ‘’aradise on the Western
Coast of Africa, where the soul of the colored man expands, and
imbibes all that is ennobling to human nature. Do they believe
that this country is congenial to them, its institutions favorable

23

to development and improvement; that here the colored man
stands erect in all that dignifies man; that he knows nor acknow-
ledges a superior? Why then cling to a land which, whatever it
may be to others, to you is a land of oppression ?

1 have heard objections to emigrating to Liberia urged on the
ground of benevolence to the poor suffermg slaves—of a tender-
ness towards them which forbids leaving them in chains. This is
an old doctrine preached more than twenty years ago, before I
left the United States. What good has your continuance there
done them? None; nor ever will. And besides, are not the poor
heathen of this country our brethren? And are they not in chains
more galling than those of American slavery? And cannot that
benevolence which binds you to the interest of enslaved breth-
ren in America, expand to a desire to unshackle the many thou-
sands to whom here you can have access? Liberia presents a
larger field and surer prospects for the exercise of that noble
principle, which seeks the benefit of others.

But brethren, are you not mistaken in the object of your con- |
tinuance in America? Is there not some incongruity in the exis-
tence of so noble a principle with a spirit so servile as to stoop
to the most menial and degrading service? I hope I shall not
offend.

Some in the Northern States boast of all the privileges they de-
sire. And what are those privileges? Just what Libervians disdain
to call by that name. Nothing will satisfy Liberians short of
equality. Equal—politically, socially, and religiously with all
men. And willsoon be mentally, morally, and in every other way,
equal to any people on earth.

Visit our legislative halls and hear discussions on principles of
political economy, diplomacy, laws, national and international,
and wonder where those men were raised. View the militia, and
witness the officer-like conduct of thosein command, the regular
movements in every department, and say if you ever saw us
excelled. Go into the Courts of justice, and see the distribution
of justice as well administered asin America. Visit the Churches,
and hear the word of God expounded in its beauty and grandeur,
and you will be led to ask what raised this people to this height.
My dear brethren, you do not know what Liberians are, nor what
Liberia is. My brother in America has asked me, how it is that
colored meri in America are so insignificant, and here are so great?
My brother and his dear children may read this letter if they

choose, and see.

ie Tae .

24

In America, we had nothing to incite us to proper application of
mind, nothing to aspire to. We read superficially, we knew super-
ficially many things known to our white neighbors, We knew the
passing occurrences of the day, &c., &c., but having no interest m
those things, that knowledge was lost on us. Butin Liberia we
found ourselves an embryo nation, but incapable of fillmg many
of the various importaut stations requiring real knowledge. Su-
perficiality would not do. We applied ourselves to study closely
and intensely, and acquired, in many instances, profound knowl-
edge, that sort which gives power. Many who have thus made
themselves are superior men.

Point to one act of any of our officials, since this has been a
Republic, which would not do credit to any people. Now, if I un-
derstand the logic taught by these circumstances, it is, that col-
ored men who breathe a proper atmosphere, surrounded by proper
influences, incited by proper objects, will become as learned, as
noble, and as great every way, as any other men on earth, and
will stand on a level, and gain equal footing with any people.
The past history and present prospects of our people justify the
anticipation. Did not Africa once blaze in the light of civilization
and the arts? In what state was Europe then? As deeply sunk-
en in heathenism as Ethiopiais now. And since Africa gave letters
and Canaan gave religion to Kurope, has no dark cloud over-
brooded it! What did Romanism do there? Romanism is not
dead. Is it not in America, on the wings of a friendly toleration,
receiving what it never gave, spreading its baneful influence over
that apparent garden of the Lord, waiting your exit to fill your
place with herds of poor, infatuated Romanists from Europe, fit
emissaries of distraction? May not a reversion take place, and
Africa again be the garden of the earth? How comfortable to re-
flect, that you have contributed, not to the downfall of any, but
to the building up of poor, long neglected, much injured Africa.

T have said you do not know Liberia. Ihave spoken of it as
Paradise. Of course, you will allow the use of that term in a
very qualified sense. It is, however, Paradise to me, compared
with any place where I am pointed out as of a distinct and inferior
class. Liberia is, however, a part of that land of which it js said,
in the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread. It, however, is a
fertile land, and abounds in abundant resources for the comfort
or even wealth ofits inhabitants. It is a free and independent
Republic, and that is the zenith of national government.

Some have objected to coming to Liberia, on account of their

2d

dislike of the Colonization Society. I dislike as much as you,
unkind, and, in some instances, unjust remarks of many who
have written and spoken on the subject of colonization. The
Colonization Society is, however, one in which more elements
combine in working out a good, than any other I know on earth.
Because God is in it, and all things shall work together for our
good. Whether the kindest benevolence, or the most malignant
hate conspire in sending us here, here is the place which God
has blessed and made the happy home of the colored race. Do,
my brethren, give up your prejudices against the Coloniza-
tion Society. The work and counsel of that Society are of God,
and you cannot overthrow it. But while the Providence and
designs of Heaven, in the achievement of that Society, are unfold-
ing, and while vast fields of usefulness are opening, come to the
help of the Lord. Come to the land of true liberty, where you
and your children may not only be happy yourselves, but where
you can assist in making Africa the praise of the whole earth.
T am your old acquaintance and brother, —
Joun Day.

‘ccm

Hollinger C
pH 8.5

Hollinger Corp.
pH 8.5