An Exploration into Diverse Modes of Emancipation

Abstract

The Maryland Agricultural College, founded in 1856, was influenced by prominent Prince George's County families: the Bowies, Magruders, and Calverts, closely tied to American chattel enslavement, played significant roles in the institution's funding and establishment. By re-examining the humanity, aspirations, and resilience of the enslaved people, we can gain greater insight into the history of the institution and the survivability tactics of the Afro-diasporic community. These three case studies embody diverse modes of freedom-seeking.