QUESTION 1
I have been engaged in the study of history for a duration of 3 years. Initially, I held the
anticipation that this pursuit would primarily enhance my proficiency in historical minutiae
(yeah, indeed). I believed it would be a jest, and I specifically selected it for that purpose.
Unbeknownst to me, the major proved to be significantly more challenging and captivating than
I had initially anticipated. Since making that decision 3 years ago, I have acquired a greater
amount of knowledge than I initially anticipated in this field of study. Furthermore, throughout
the course of the past three years, I have authored numerous academic papers and research
proposals. I recall that my initial idea encountered rejection on three occasions before it was
eventually approved by my professor. He argued that my early recommendations were
excessively wide and susceptible to significant prejudice in shaping the manuscript. I gained
insight into the significance of the research project from his reaction. As a student, submitting
ideas serves as a means of ensuring our commitment to the task we aim to accomplish. It is a
method that ensures we remain focused on the subject matter and are compelled to adhere to the
initial purpose of the research. It prevents us from deviating and veering too far from the main
subject.
QUESTION 2
During my junior1year, I enrolled in the Civil War and Reconstruction history class
(HIUS 420) and developed a profound interest in how the South managed to persuade an entire
significant portion of the United States to accept the notion of slavery. Regrettably, I was unable
to extensively explore this subject matter at that particular class. Subsequently, during my
enrollment in Historical Methodology at Liberty University, I was presented with a similar
chance to present a research project on any subject matter. I opted to submit a paper on this
particular issue, but regrettably, I was unable to thoroughly investigate and analyze the subject
matter. However, with the introduction of this class, I have gained the ability to do so. I intend to
conduct study on the proslavery argument in the Southern states, with a particular focus on its
biblical justification.
QUESTION 3
Initially, finding topics on the Biblical Pro-Slavery argument for the south was tough because I
wasn’t searching specific enough. Then after some research, I was able to find that most of the argument
came from one minister in South Carolina, James Henley Thornwell. I am going to use the transcripts and
writings of some of his sermons that speak directly on the matter of supporting slavery in the south.
ANNOTATED BIBLIOGRAPHY
1) David Donald, The Proslavery Argument Reconsidered, (The Journal of Southern History, Vol. 37,
No. 1, 1971),
This article, authored by David Donald, critically reassesses the previously held justifications for
the endorsement of slavery. It examines the economic, political, and other arguments in relation
to the biblical thesis.
2) James Henley Thornwell, Rights and Duties of Masters, Sermon Preached at the Dedication of a
Church Erected in Charleston, S.C.,
This text is a message that Thornwell delivered to a church in South Carolina. The text focuses on
the methods and attitudes that Southern slave masters1ought to use in their care of their slaves.
3) James Henley Thornwell, The Baptism of Servants, (Southern Presbyterian Review, Vol. 6, 1847),
This sermon by Thornwell specifically addresses the objective of achieving salvation for slaves.
This source is intriguing since it argues that the act of "saving" slaves somehow justifies the
existence of slavery.
4) James Henley Thornwell, The Collected Writings of James Henley Thornwell, (Richmond, VA
1871-73), Volume 4
This site provides a comprehensive compilation of Thornwell's writings. Examining his private
affairs through letters and diaries will be beneficial.
5) James Henley Thornwell, The Duties of Masters, (Southern Presbyterian Review Vol. 10, 1854),
This sermon by Thornwell addresses the appropriate behavior and treatment that slave masters
should exhibit towards their slaves.
6) Marliyn J. Westerkamp, James Henley Thornwell, Pro-Slavery Spokesman within a Calvinist
Faith, (The Southern Historical Magazine, Vol. 87, No. 1, 1986)
This paper examines Thornwell from a contemporary standpoint. This paper will incorporate
religious background and reasoning.
7) The Holy Bible, Christian Standard Bible
The Bible will be employed to counter the points of view of the south by utilizing scriptural
evidence.
8) W. B. Hesseltine, Some New Aspects of the Pro-Slavery Argument, (The Journal of Negroe
History, 1936), Vol. 21, No. 1
This is a contemporary source that sheds insight on the Biblical argument made by the South
during the era of slave ownership.
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