The Emancipation ProclamationThe Emancipation Proclamation

The Emancipation Proclamation, issued by President Abraham Lincoln in 1863, declared all Confederate slaves to be free. Because the order only applied to Southern states that the Union did not control, few slaves benefited immediately. However, many see the historic document as a key turning point in the U.S. Civil War and in the movement to abolish slavery. Celebrate Black History Month all year long! Our highly acclaimed Journey to Freedom series provides comprehensive information on African Americans who have played leading roles in shaping world history. These impeccably designed volumes are packed with clear, informative text and vintage photographs that bring the subjects' frustrations and victories to life, offering a fresh look and an honest portrayal of African American people and events that have forever impacted our society.