Land Petition From Black Settlers Of Manchester
Dublin Core
Title
Land Petition From Black Settlers Of Manchester
Description
This petition, written by the Black Loyalists of Manchester, Nova Scotia, exposes the massive gap between the lifestyles of different settlers in the colonies. Although the British crown promised equal treatment for all its subjects living in Canada, as well as land grants in reward for their military service, Black petitioners reported that after two years, they had received neither land nor adequate supplies. Many others claimed that their living conditions were dire: reduced food rations, continued struggles to build homes, to farm, or to support their families, all while white Loyalists nearby received regular tools, clothing, and provisions.
These inequalities were systemic rather than exceptional, as shown by these documents. Although they had been freed, Black folks would continue to face oppressive policies and attitudes that sought to limit their agency.
These inequalities were systemic rather than exceptional, as shown by these documents. Although they had been freed, Black folks would continue to face oppressive policies and attitudes that sought to limit their agency.
Creator
Unknown
Source
Nova Scotia Archives. “Land petition from Black settlers of Manchester, 7 October 1786.” https://archives.novascotia.ca/africanns/archives/?ID=36
Publisher
Nova Scotia Archives
Date
7 October 1786
Rights
Public Domain
Type
Legal Document
Files
Citation
Unknown, “Land Petition From Black Settlers Of Manchester,” Black Canadian History Exhibit, accessed December 6, 2025, http://omeka.uottawa.ca/mathieu-black-canadian-history-exhibit/items/show/184.