The Aliened American facts for kids

The Aliened American was an important newspaper published in Cleveland, Ohio. It holds a special place in history because it was the very first newspaper for African Americans in Cleveland. It's also thought to be only the third newspaper for Black people in the entire United States!

The first issue of The Aliened American came out on April 9, 1853. It was created to share news and ideas important to the African American community during a time when many Black people faced unfair treatment.

What Was The Aliened American?

The Aliened American was a newspaper that spoke out against injustice. It was published once a month. After William H. Day, its main editor, moved away in 1855, the newspaper continued for about another year under a new name: People's Exposition.

Why the Name "Aliened American"?

The newspaper's name, The Aliened American, had a very strong meaning. In its first issue, the paper explained that Black Americans were treated like "aliens." This meant they were made to feel like outsiders in their own country, even though they were born there. This feeling came from unfair laws, public opinions, and community rules of the time.

The word "alien" here refers to the idea that descendants of enslaved people were not given the same rights as other Americans. It connects to the idea of "inalienable rights," which are rights that everyone should have and that cannot be taken away. The newspaper used its name to highlight how these basic rights were being denied to Black Americans.

Who Helped Create the Newspaper?

Many dedicated people worked to make The Aliened American happen.

The Editor: William H. Day

William H. Day was the main editor of The Aliened American. He was a very important person in the newspaper's early days. Day was a strong voice for freedom and equality. In 1855, he moved to Buxton, Ontario, which was a community in Canada where many formerly enslaved people found freedom.

Other Important Contributors

Day had help from other notable figures:

• Samuel Ringgold Ward: He was a former slave who lived in Toronto, Canada. He was a powerful speaker and writer who supported the newspaper's mission.
• Rev. James W. C. Pennington: From New York, he was another significant person who contributed to the newspaper. He was also a former slave who became a well-known minister and abolitionist.

These individuals worked together to create a platform that shared the experiences and struggles of African Americans and called for change.