James Roberts (slave narrative) facts for kids

James Roberts (born in 1753) was an enslaved American who lived during a very difficult time in history. His life story shows the challenges faced by many people who were not free.

Early Life and Enslavement

James Roberts was born on the Eastern Shore of Maryland in 1753. At this time, slavery was common in America, and James was born into enslavement. His enslaver was Francis De Shields, a colonel who served in Washington's army.

James Roberts fought alongside Colonel De Shields during the American Revolutionary War, which lasted for seven years. After the war ended, James worked for Washington in Philadelphia as De Shields's servant. When Colonel De Shields died, James hoped he would finally be free. However, instead of gaining his freedom, he was sadly sold to another person named William Ward. This meant he was separated from his family. Later, he was sold again at an auction in New Orleans to Calvin Smith.

Life Under Calvin Smith

Life under Calvin Smith was very hard for James Roberts. He saw many terrible things happen around him. One of his cousins was treated very badly and died shortly after.

During this time, General Jackson visited Calvin Smith's plantation. He needed 500 enslaved men to help prepare for the Battle of New Orleans. James Roberts was one of these 500 men chosen to help. When the army arrived in New Orleans, General Jackson noticed his men were scared. To encourage them, he told them not to be afraid, saying they were just men like themselves and that courage would help them overcome their fears.

The Battle of New Orleans and Its Aftermath

James Roberts fought in the Battle of New Orleans. During the battle, he was seriously injured, receiving a wound to his head and losing a finger. After the battle was won, the enslaved men had been promised something for their service. However, this promise was not kept. Instead of gaining their freedom or being rewarded, they were simply sent back to their enslavers.

This was a heartbreaking moment for James and the other men. James Roberts had to return to working for Calvin Smith, whom he had come to dislike. He continued to experience harsh treatment and see others suffer.

Seeking Justice

Many years later, in 1856, James Roberts tried to get a pension for his service in the war. A pension is like a regular payment given to people who have served their country. He contacted President Pierce in Washington, D.C.. However, President Pierce refused his request. He told Roberts that he was seen as property, like an animal, and that giving him a pension would be wrong, especially since his enslaver was still receiving one. This shows how difficult it was for enslaved people to gain recognition or rights, even after fighting for their country.