A Voice from Harper's Ferry: a narrative of events at Harper's Ferry, with incidents prior and subsequent to its capture by Captain Brown and his men

As a historian of the abolitionist period, and the raid at Harpers Ferry in particular, I strongly recommend the work of Osborn Perry Anderson. His work is the only surviving manuscript which gives the story from the perspective of the men who fought against slavery with John Brown -- not the confederacy or other biased versions. Anderson was also an African American, and thus further adds a missing perspective. I find it unacceptable to buy into the "academic" establishment's version of history in this regard, that Anderson, an African American, does not carry equal weight with the white writers of the time. If we acknowledge that racism was a bias in historical accounts, then Osborn Perry Anderson's account shares what it meant without the racist distortions, as he was part of a multiracial movement for emancipation. While the text covers some aspects of raid that may embarass some, the truth needs to be told. It should also be noted that Osborn Perry Anderson him self was given the special Sword that belonged to President George Washington, as one who would uplift the new nation of justice. Brown recognized him as a leader, and his leadership was well proven in his ability to escape at the end of the battle, and seek refuge in Canada. He saved the day with a more objective account, which was edited by Mary Shadd, and published in 1861. He seems to avoid mention of some details to protect comrades working against slavery, and their families. Finally, the book helps us to reflect on where we need to go from here, in order to achieve justice and equality. It is a great inspirational and yet factual book. It is excellent and highly recommended!