4.12 Ohio’s Historical Commitment to Freedom and Justice

Ohio’s first constitution, adopted in 1802, prohibited slavery. While racial prejudice still existed, Ohio’s abolitionist movement was influential, and several Ohioans played an active role in the Underground Railroad, which aided enslaved people in their escape to the North. This early commitment to justice distinguished Ohio in the years leading up to the Civil War.

Committed abolitionists in Ohio played a crucial role in shaping the state’s history and moral character. Charles Osborne founded the first abolitionist newspaper. Figures like John P. Parker, John Rankin, Lucy Stanton, Salmon Portland Case, and Levi Coffin were instrumental in the fight against slavery, providing shelter and assistance to those fleeing bondage. Harriet Beecher Stowe wrote the novel Uncle Tom’s Cabin, which had a tremendous influence on the abolitionist movement. These efforts reflected a broader societal commitment to human rights and equality, which resonated deeply with the state’s citizens.

During the Civil War, Ohio’s dedication to these principles was evident in the disproportionate number of Union soldiers who hailed from the state. Ohio contributed significantly to the Union Army, with many men enlisting to fight for the abolition of slavery and the preservation of the Union. This strong participation underscored the state’s commitment to the cause of freedom and justice.

Ohio’s long-standing dedication to these values is something we can be proud of. It speaks to a history of moral courage and a willingness to stand up for what is right.

Today, tens of thousands of Ohio families can trace their lineage back to the Civil War and be proud of their ancestors’ contributions to abolition. For example, my great-great-grandfather, Charles Martin, enlisted in the Union Army in 1861 in Akron, and later fought at the Battle of Gettysburg. His story is one of many that highlight the bravery and dedication of Ohioans who fought for the abolition of slavery.

Here’s something for you trivia buffs and sports fans. Ohio’s contribution to abolition continues to resonate in our state’s popular culture. This is evident in the nickname of the Columbus Blue Jackets, the state’s NHL team. The name pays homage to the many Ohioans who served in the Union army during the American Civil War and to the manufacture of many of the uniforms worn by that army in Columbus. This tribute reflects the enduring legacy of Ohio’s commitment to freedom and justice, highlighting how the state’s proud history still influences its identity and cultural expressions today. This last paragraph comes directly from the Encyclopedia Britannica: https://www.britannica.com/topic/Columbus-Blue-Jackets.